THE recent election for the West Devon and Torridge seat was fought by an impressive array of candidates, all of whom seemed to have the best interests of the local constituency at heart. The campaign literature was interesting and informative and the varying viewpoints were well covered by the Times (April 28). For the first time, I considered switching my allegiance from Tory to Lib Dem and was gratified that the Lib Dem candidate was to be seen delivering leaflets in my area. However, I was slightly irritated by his reference in two separate leaflets to ?Michael Howard?s controversial candidate? without any explanation of what he meant. Both candidates seemed well qualified to represent the constituency but my traditional loyalty just won the day. Subsequently I was disappointed that the Lib Dem candidate trotted out the old chestnut about his supporters failing to turn up on the day, and the next day on national radio he said there had been a personal edge to the Tory campaign, if so there was no sign of this in the leaflets. Having said all that, it is to be hoped that all voters can unite behind the new MP and hold him to account for his efforts on their behalf. It promises to be the most interesting Parliament for years. John Browning River Court Tavistock