In pictures: France's shock

French pundits and voters had resigned themselves to a re-run of the 1995 presidential election, with a straight choice between Jacques Chirac on the right and Lionel Jospin on the left.

But far-right leader Jean-Marie Le Pen rocked the nation by overtaking Mr Jospin in the race to the second round.

Outrage at Mr Le Pen's success has been voiced at rallies across the country.

Mr Le Pen's supporters are quietly at work campaigning for their man in the second round

The leader of the far right has made no secret of his delight and, at 73, is as self-confident as ever.

But few doubt Jacques Chirac's victory in the second round by a crushing margin.

Lionel Jospin's dreams of the Elysee Palace have cruelly evaporated.

Even supporters of his long-time foe, Jacques Chirac, could not conceal their dismay at how things turned out.

The feeling that the French nation had disgraced itself was widespread.