VOTERS in Taunton Deane have been asked to consider voting tactically by high-ranking politicians this week.

The leader of UKIP, Lord Pearson, called on UKIP voters to support the Conservatives in the constituency while two Labour cabinet ministers sent out signals to Labour supporters to vote LibDem to keep out the Tories.

Taunton Deane Conservative candidate Mark Formosa, who has Eurosceptic views, was visited by Conservative Shadow Europe Minister Mark Francois yesterday.

Mr Formosa said: “I find there is great concern among the public that a LibDem vote will result in a hung Parliament where Nick Clegg will not only prop up Gordon Brown for another five years, but the price for doing so will be to force us to abandon our Pound Sterling.”

Taunton Deane UKIP candidate Tony McIntyre said: “Lord Pearson has his opinions. I am proceeding with my campaign to give people a choice. We are a four-horse race in Taunton Deane and I feel the electorate should have the full spectrum of choice.”

Meanwhile, Labour’s Welsh Secretary, Peter Hain said people should ‘vote with their hearts’ and recognise the ‘real fight’ in their constituency, while Education Secretary Ed Balls acknowledged there is an ‘issue’ in LibDem/Conservative marginal seats - like Taunton Deane – where Labour supporters want to keep out Conservatives.

Labour candidate Martin Jevon said: “I understand why people feel the need for tactical voting. However, people shouldn't be swayed by the arguments. You should vote with your heart and vote for the person that you most want to represent you in the Houses of Parliament.”

LibDem candidate Jeremy Browne was not available for comment on the issue but will be boosted by the arrival of former party leader Paddy Ashdown today. He will be in the Avenue with Mr Browne at about 3.45pm.

Remember, the result of the ballot will be posted on this website as it happens. The result is expected in the early hours of Friday.

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