The Election Monitor is now closed, but don't depart without checking out some great election party pics from across the country. Good to see our party packs being put to good use.

Thanks for all your comments and suggestions throughout the campaign.

Normal service will resume when the Magazine Monitor returns on Monday.

Thank you! I've really enjoyed the election thanks to the monitor. Here's to the next time!
Chris, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Coming from the US, it's great seeing a map with more than two colors on it.
Bob Land, bristol, virginia, USA

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See the clash

For anyone who missed it overnight, the tussle between George Galloway and Jeremy Paxman was one of the highlights, which came shortly after his victory over Labour's Oona King.

JP: We're joined now from his count in Bethnal Green and Bow by George Galloway. Mr Galloway, are you proud of having got rid of one of the very few black women in Parliament?
GG: What a preposterous question. I know it's very late in the night, but wouldn't you be better starting by congratulating me for one of the most sensational election results in modern history?
JP: Are you proud of having got rid of one of the very few black women in Parliament?
GG: I'm not - Jeremy - move on to your next question.
JP: You're not answering that one?
GG: No because I don't believe that people get elected because of the colour of their skin. I believe people get elected because of their record and because of their policies. So move on to your next question.
JP: Are you proud -
GG: Because I've got a lot of people who want to speak to me.
JP: - You -
GG: If you ask that question again, I'm going, I warn you now.
JP: Don't try and threaten me Mr Galloway, please.
GG: You're the one who's trying to badger me.
JP: I'm not trying to badger you, I'm merely trying to ask if you're proud at having driven out of Parliament one of the very few black women there, a woman you accuse of having on her conscience 100,000 people.
GG: Oh well there's no doubt about that one. There's absolutely no doubt that all those New Labour MPs who voted for Mr Blair and Mr Bush's war have on their hands the blood of 100,000 people in Iraq, many of them British soldiers, many of them American soldiers, most of them Iraqis and that's a more important issue than the colour of her skin.
JP: Absolutely, because you then went on to say "including a lot of women who had blacker faces than her"
GG: Absolutely right, absolutely right. So don't try and tell me I should feel guilty about one of the most sensational election results in modern electoral history.
JP: I put it to you Mr Galloway that Nick Raynsford had you to a T when he said you were a "demagogue".
GG: Sorry?
JP: Nick Raynsford. You know who I mean? Nick Raynsford. Labour MP?
GG: No, I don't know who you mean.
JP: Never heard of him.
GG: I've never heard of Nick Raynsford, no.
JP: What else haven't you heard of?
GG: Well, I've been in Parliament a long time...
JP: He was a Parliamentary colleague of yours until very recently.
GG: Well, most of them just blend one into the other, Jeremy, they're largely a spineless, a supine bunch.
JP: Have you ever heard of Tony Banks?
GG: Yes I have, yes.
JP: Right, Tony Banks was sitting here five minutes ago, and he said that you were behaving inexcusably, that you had deliberately chosen to go to that part of London and to exploit the latent racial tensions there.
GG: You are actually conducting one of the most - even by your standards - one of the most absurd interviews I have ever participated in. I have just won an election. Can you find it within yourself to recognise that fact? To recognise the fact that the people of Bethnal Green and Bow chose me this evening. Why are you insulting them?
JP: I'm not insulting them, I'm not insulting you
GG: You are insulting them, they chose me just a few minutes ago. Can't you find it within yourself even to congratulate me on this victory?
JP: Congratulations, Mr Galloway.
GG: Thank you very much indeed. [Waves, removes microphone]

I normally enjoy Paxman's interview's of politicians but he was way out of line with his question to our new MP. My whole family voted for Respect as we decided to choose the lesser of two evils, as politicians are regarded very lowly in my eyes. However only time will tell if Mr Galloway will help Bethnal Green & Bow move forward or be like Labour and do nothing.
Dilwar Hussain, Bethnal Green, London

It's not Galloway that Paxman was unashamedly slapping in the face, it's the electorate of Bethnal Green and Bow. How embarrassing for him that he found it so difficult to congratulate someone just voted into Parliament through a democratic process!
Jaff, London

I think that increasingly JP is becoming a parody of himself. He approaches interviews in an aggresive manner with apparently more interest in tripping people up than gaining insight to their politics. Regardless of what you think of Galloway the question was absurd and JP has embarassed himself.
Niall Duncan, Dundee

I don't like Paxman normally - but he was spot on with this one. Well done.
Alan Milnes, Glenrothes, Scotland

Paxman is a disgraceful example of a celebrity newspresenter, more interested in his own hard-nosed image than actually doing his job. Paxman was far more sucessful inciting racial tension in that shameful interview than Galloway ever has and he should lose his position at the BBC as a result. What ever happened to unbiased interview technique? Paxman should go work for Fox News!
Fred Nicolle, Cambridge, UK

I like Jeremy's aggressive and combative style of questioning. In these days of pat, over rehearsed answers, his pre-emptive "cut them off at the knees with the first question" strategy is the only way to unsettle glib and camera savvy politicians. Oona King was a fine and hard working constituency MP, dilberately targeted by Galloway because of the ethnic and religious make-up of her constituency. Galloway fought a genuinely nasty campaign, making much of Ms King's fair skin colour (and her Jewish heritage to boot), Jeremy Paxman was right to call him on it. More power to him.
hamble mary , Sri Lanka, nee London

Paxman should be sacked and replaced with a black woman presenter. Congratulations to Respect and George Galloway.
ben caldwell, London

Paxman's first question was idiotic. By repeatedly asking it, he clearly thought this was another "did you threaten to overrule him?" scenario. (Which, admittedly, had been his finest hour.) In this incredibly unprofessional interview, he seemed to have a personal vendetta against Galloway. And even succeeded in eliciting sympathy for him. Truly, truly dismal.
Chris Miller, Edinburgh

Mr Galloway is one of the least likeable figures in politics and I would have loved to see him properly cut down to size by Paxman, instead i was left seeing a bitter squable in which Paxman asked a stupid question repeatedly and Galloway actually came off well for refusing to talk to him.
Rob Green, Edinburgh

I think what Jeremy is suggesting is that Galloway has unseated a strong, popular and hard working politician, who had built up an important relationship with her constituents, and who was representative of a section of society that is grossly underrepresented in Parliament. Fighting a single-issue election campaign is all very well in priciple, but I have my doubts about Galloway's competence as a day-to-day MP. Good for Paxman, Galloway needs a strip or two torn from him.
Lucy, Wandsworth, London

Is Paxman seriously suggesting that someone should be given a clear run because of their colour and sex? If so, that is sexist and racist. Is he suggesting that the only candidate who can stand against a black woman is another black woman? Is this some sort of crazy card game? I trump your black woman with a black gay woman? I'm liberal, would probably be termed politically corrext, but I fear Paxman is becoming a parody of himself.
Paul, London

Absolutely classic Paxman! He's the only reason i still watch Newsnight. He's the only guy on TV who'll give someone like Galloway the slapping he deserves!
Owen Callan, Dublin

Another digusting interview. Does Mr Paxman mean muslims are not intelligent enough to choose their MP?
Martin, London

Galloway and all politicians are boring! Paxman is as entertaining as he is astute! I love this guy!
Bud Patterson, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, USA

If Galloway claims not to be using racial tension then why did he stand in South London and not in Glasgow where he used to be? Good on paxman for giving him a hard time.
Ken, Bath, UK

Jeremy Paxman has lost the plot. He has gained plaudits for this style of interview on a couple of occasions, but it wasn't appropriate this time (it rarely is) nor did it work. If this was one of the highlights of the evening I'm glad I had an early night.
Alan, Farnborough, Hampshire, England

Good on you JP. Considering that this 'gentleman' was advocating acts of Treason by British troops not so long ago, it is very surprising that he is still at liberty. The man has no shame or sense of loyalty.
Craig Hughes, Blackpool, Lancs

Many BBC journalists seem to be setting the political agenda. They rush the pace giving no time for their interviewee to develop a properly considered opinion. This has led to the politics of the sound byte with the journalists themselves (Humphrys, Montague, Sturton, the hapless Naughtie and the unspeakable Paxman et al.) becoming part of the story. The unelected, carrying responsibility for the decline of our political culture, but yet unaccountable.
Graham Dickinson, Moenchengladbach Germany

I know Galloway is little better than the rest of them, what with his record of getting in to bed with Saddam Hussein and Tariq Aziz, (like most of the West up until the first Gulf War, mind), but the questioning by Paxman seems a bit off the mark. Worse thing is, some of the Repsect policies like re-nationalisation of the railiways appeal to me. Unfortunately, another party with an unbearbale leader.... sounds familiar!
Simon Evans, london

Brilliant! I am a student myself and aside from the election you have fantastic watchable television so late in the morning. Galloway got away with nothing. Well Done Jeremy, top questioning!
Darren McDonald, Batley, West Yorkshire

For Paxman to even imply that a white politician beating a black politican is something in itself 'bad' is disgusting. Paxman should apologise immediately to Galloway and to his viewers
David, London

Congratulations to Mr Galloway upon his election to parliament. The people of his new constituency have shown a lot more maturity than Mr Paxmen gives them credit for. Doesn't Mr Paxman realise that the large ethnic component in Mr Galloways new seat have had the commonsense to vote for him, based on the issues. The electorate have concentrated on what Mr Galloway stands for, rather than being blinded or obsessed by racial/sexist issues as Mr Paxman is. In this interview Mr Paxman is in fact guilty of exactly what he wishes to accuse Mr Galloway of. What a disgrace!
Jim Hudson, Brisbane, Australia

I had just nodded off and missed this one, disaster! Did see Ken Clarke, humorous as ever, but it seems he's been left with egg on his face as the exit polls which are "always wrong" have bit him and the Tories on the behind!
Paddy, N.Ireland

Absolutely disgusting line of questioning by Jeremy.
Ben Smith, Manchester

I was proud of you Jeremy, you didn't let Galloway get away with posturing and set the tone straight off the bat with a fantastic question. Galloway should have known Jezza would be more than up for a ruck!!
Colin Brown, Orpington

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By Steve Schifferes BBC News website

Charles Kennedy was the only party leader to enjoy a triumphant press conference, although his supporters on the steps of the Lib Dems' Cowley St HQ had to wait 30 minutes for his appearance.

A rousing reception for Kennedy

The distinctly old-fashioned feel of the event - outdoors and stage-managed with music and lights as most press conferences during the campaign have been - was somewhat soured for the waiting journalist scrum when a whirring helicopter overhead made it almost impossible to hear any of Charles Kennedy's remarks or the journalists' questions.

Nevertheless, the young faces among the balloons - and the grinning face of Lib Dem chief executive Chris Rennard in the background - told one of the central stories of the election in a single picture.

And the sun really did break through the clouds as he started to speak.

Kennedy and Howard both celebrating? There's no losers in this election.
Simon, London

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By Nick Assinder Political correspondent, BBC News website

We're used to politicians claiming victory when they have just been given a good kicking.

Comeback kid

So it's a bit of a novelty when one claims defeat when he's just about to win something. Step forward Medway's Bob Marshall-Andrews, who happily went on air to declare that he was pretty confident he would be kicked out of the Commons.

He joked that at least his defeat would give Tony Blair something to smile about on an otherwise bleak night. The independently-minded and "comfortably off" MP (that's one reason he can afford to be independently minded) has been a constant thorn in the side of the prime minister.

When Marlon Brando's gang leader in the film The Wild One was asked what he was rebelling against, he famously replied "what have you got" - that could almost be Mr Marshall-Andrews' motto.

But it didn't happen. He got a majority of 233 over Tory rival Mark Reckless. And then he went back on air to declare triumphantly: "I'm Lazarus!"

Poor Mark Reckless - everytime I saw one of his posters, with the background of the postal vote scandal, I found myself muttering 'Vote Reckless, vote often'.
Emma Malkin, Rochester, Kent

Nick, I know it was late, but the famous phrase was uttered by James Dean in Rebel without a cause. Not the leader of the Beetles (theres another link) Marlon Brando.
John Sinclair, Norwich/England

Which just goes to show that politicians with good local opinion can buck national trends. Unfortunatly these days, no party wants to select independently minded people, just drones who will tow the party line.
David Patrick, Reading, UK

No, I'M Lazarus!
Ed, Droitwich

I would have loved to be able to vote in this election. Sadly I am overseas and I am one of many still waiting for their postal ballot paper to arrive...
Anita Calcraft, Abu Dhabi, UAE

For Anita: it looks like your ballot paper has turned up - it and 33,000 copies were last seen somewhere near Birmingham.
Andrew Richards, London, UK

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By Mark Mardell Chief political correspondent

I have now moved on from Labour HQ to a place in central London that, rather ridiculously, I have to refer to as "Location Two" for security reasons. The chancellor and deputy prime minister are already inside, along with Chris Evans and Eddie Izzard.

But the prime minister is yet to arrive. We're being told formally that this is not a party, it's a "results service", and that means no champagne is on offer.

I asked one aparatchik what you drink when you're not trying to look triumphalist but you are celebrating a victory. The answer is red and white wine and beer. Presumably not in the same glass.

Eddie Izzard? Funnily enough I saw him early in a Soho cinema watching "Downfall" about the final days in Hitler's Bunker. I wonder if he choose that movie for any particular reason?
Paul Duncan, London

Nice one Mark, I always enjoy your wit, particularly when you're dressed for it! Nothing personal mind!!
Graham Boucher, Pencoed, Bridgend

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By Guto Harri Political correspondent

One campaign promise has already been kept.

As I reported here nearly a month ago, Tory campaign worker Tara Hamilton-Miller promised to wear a different pair of shoes for each day during the campaign. She has achieved her goal, keeping her word tonight by sporting a pair of golden kitten heels and a fabulous Grecian dress.

Yet another example of Tory frivolous self-interest. As a student, there's no way I could afford thirty-odd pairs of shoes, nor could the majority of people I know. If that's what the Tories spend their money on, perhaps they're being paid too much.
Christine, Oxford/Dublin

Congratulations to Tara! Just highlights some of the brilliant creativity and originality that has gone into an excellent Conservative campaign. The Tories emphasise that they stand for freedom of the individual over the state's powers - I can't think of a better way to illustrate this in a lighthearted way! It's surely only a matter of time before Blair's over-zealous nanny state regulates what type of shoes we're allowed to wear. And how can anyone seriously take offence at a personal decision on what she wears to work each day ?
Charles, London

Perhaps Tara can give Ruth Kelly some hints. If I see her wearing that baggy brown trouser suit just one more time!
Helen, Leeds

Maybe she had a message for Tony Blair, borrowed from Nancy Sinatra, if you remember the lyrics: "These Boots Were Made For Walkin' by Nancy Sinatra album: Boots (1995),You Go-Go Girl
You keep saying you've got something for me. something you call love, but confess. You've been a messin' where you shouldn't have been a messin' and now someone else is gettin' all your best. These boots are made for walking, and that's just what they'll do one of these days these boots are gonna walk all over you."
Lloyd, Manchester , England

What a wonderful way to get the female vote, I dip my hat to her.
Bob, Leeds

I suppose its better than sporting the Emperors New clothes. Perhaps....
Ben, Kenilworth

What's your middle name Tara, Imelda?
Graham Boucher, Pencoed, Bridgend

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Election counts are great places for pictures - all the human drama of victory and defeat. Rosettes for the politicians and comedy headgear for the fringe candidates.

Eagle-eyed Press Association photographer Phil Noble was at the count for Keighley, west Yorkshire when he spotted this one: A pair of Nike's Stand Up Speak UP anti-racism wristbands - a must-have among teenagers and promoted nationally by Arsenal's Thierry Henry.

And where was the band spotted? On the wrist of Nick Griffin, leader of the British National Party.

I do not support this man or his party in any way but it is obvious why he is wearing those bands. The BNP fought their campaign on the basis that racism against white people is as common as racism against black people. He agrees with the message but the other way round to most people!!
Cath Breen, Bolton

Oh that settles it then, He can't be racist. And to think all this time ... Does Nick Griffin seriously believe that this is going to fool anyone? Although admittedly the gain in BNP votes seems to suggest he is, scary.
James, Cambridge, UK

Lets not forget that the bands are not Anti-Racism bands, they are Kick Racism out of Football bands!! A completely different ball game!!
Stuart Dempsey, Stevenage

Is it me, or does that prove that some people are wearing the bands for fashion purposes rather than in support of the organisations.
BK, Plymouth Sutton

I think that this just goes to prove how stupid the BNP are. Either Nick Griffin is extremely stupid, or he is a bigger hypocrite than any other party leader in this election. Does he know what those bands are for? Or is he just trying to be fashionable? Either way he's made a bigger fool of himself than Tony Blair over Iraq!
Llanwrtyd Wells, Wales, UK

I think the guy genuinely believes if he is patriotic and believes he is doing the best for his country then he is not being racist. Thats the only way I can understand such an idiot.
Matthew Cook, Leicester, UK

A publicity stunt, surely?
Richard, Cambridge

Perhaps Nick Griffin supports British jingoism whatever the skin colour of his fellow nationalists.
Tim Bannister, Manchester, England

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By Jenny Scott BBC News

The Labour vote in Dorset West collapsed tonight. Literally. The shelf holding the counted ballot papers crashed to the floor, although it was unlikely to be because of the weight. Labour trailed well behind the Tories and the Lib Dems in this traditionally blue constituency where Oliver Letwin was re-elected.

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As anyone who took part in our Take Ten election game will know, in the 2001 election the candidate who polled the lowest number of votes was Amos Klein, who got 43 votes in Hampstead and Highgate.

That record has been well and truly shattered this time.

Catherine Taylor-Dawson scored just one vote in Cardiff North, standing for the Vote for Yourself Rainbow Dream Ticket, though she did also stand in the three other Cardiff seats where she had more success (37 in Central, 79 in South, and 167 in West).

Actually, that got broken later on by the Veritas candidate in Chester, who polled 0 votes :)
Jo, Reading, UK

Please can we have a video clip of Catherine Taylor-Dawson's post-results announcement speech(es) - she brought a guitar along and sang a song in front of the election hall!
Andrew Oakley

Catherine Taylor-Dawson won? Oh, right...
MH, Not Wales, UK

I wonder who voted for her...
BK, Plymouth, UK

When will this country get proportional representation? This sytem is antiquated and needs changing - soon!
Refuse,UK

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By Nick Assinder Political correspondent, BBC News website

It was one of the iconic moments of the 1997 election night - the sight of Steven Twigg's face when he ousted Tory star Michael Portillo.

"Were you up for Portillo" became a much heard cry after the poll.

Well it was a very different face Mr Twigg, now familiar as a schools minister, was wearing when the Tories came to reposess their seat in Enfield Southgate on election night 2005.

But another iconic moment - this time summing up what seemed to be happening to Labour across the country. That is, to coin Michael Howard's phrase, the smiles were being wiped off their faces.

Twiggs's defeat sums it up. He was a great MP and I voted for him both times in 1997 and 2001. But if you vote for Stephen, you're automatically voting for Blair, and I just couldn't do it. Sorry Stephen, but it's Blair's fault you weren't re-elected.
John Tracey, Winchmore Hill, Enfield

I think stephen twigg is one of the most committed and responsible mp's in this country's history and I am sad to see him being replaced, not least because he provided one of the funniest election night moments ever when he beat portillo in '97. I hope he comes back stronger and I wish him well.
jo, ware

I am truly sorry for Stephen Twigg who is a fantastic chap and has been hard working for the local community for which he represented. Unfortunately , it was not a personal thing that the voters did when they voted Conservative , they were voting for the party and not THE MAN. It's a real shame but this is what happens when you have a situation where local issues are overwhelmed with the nations issues eg a general election. I wish him all the best and good fortunes to Stephen Twigg in the future , he has the potential to become a future prime minister!
Ben Soydan, Southgate / Enfield

Sad for Steven perhaps, but hardly iconic. This seems to show two things. One, a lot of people regard Iraq as important and are prepared to change their voting patterns because of it. Two, most people still do not want the Conservatives in power. I don't think that very much more can actually be drawn from last night's results. After all, there is (practically speaking) very little "blue water" between either of the two main parties any more.
Rob Miles, Barnet, Herts

I'm glad Mr Twigg has finally been removed as MP for Enfield Southgate. From my own personal experience of him (after speaking and writing to him), I found him to be just another spineless career politician who touts the party line without standing up for his constituents' grievances!
JN, Southgate, London

The smiles certainly won't be "wiped off their faces". The reduced majority of the Labour victory shouldn't worry Blair. With the Civil Contingencies Act now in place he can declare a totalitarian state any time he chooses. It's 1933 all over again...
Tyler, London

I agree with Matt. I live in Enfield Southgate and this a truly terrible result. Stephen Twigg was a fantastic MP who worked hard for local people. Voters became too side tracked with the Blair credibility problem and fell for a set of false promises from a single issue party. I wish Mr Twigg well in whatever he decides to do and hope he remains in public life. Pity he'll probably never be my MP again though.
Michelle , London

This is a terrible result for Enfield and a result of Labour supporters protesting with a Lib Dem vote. Unfortunately it has resulted in the loss of one of the most hard-working and ambitious MPs who has done a lot for Enfield. I am regretting my own vote as I know are others. I hope Mr Twigg is around in four years when the Iraq issue will not impair judgement.
Matt, London

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By Reeta Chakrabarti Political correspondent

14,000 miles travelled and 39 different constituencies visited - those are the figures the Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy has notched up in the last four weeks.

Today he was having a well-earned rest. For your correspondent however the campaign ended with a live two-way in a muddy field behind the leader's house, broadcasting in the torrential rain. Who said telly was glamorous?

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By Alan Connor The Daily Politics

Jeremy Paxman has been elected prime minister.

Or rather, while the real Jeremy Paxman is still busy on BBC One, the fantasy candidate has been chosen by users of the Friends Reunited spin-off MPs Reunited as their ideal PM. Women preferred Victoria Wood, or Hugh Grant, who had a bash at playing the PM in Love Actually.

Apparently, voters prefer MPs to wear "smart casual" rather than suits - and the site's been fielding the opinions of old schoolmates of the candidates, and asking whether they would vote for them now. Half of those who knew them when they were young said they wouldn't "in a million years".

Meanwhile, while some will be sparing a thought for the MPs who will be clearing their desks after tonight's results, what of their staff?

Working For An MP provides resources for everyone else in Westminster, and many of the PPSes and researchers will be downloading some grim reading: the Department of Finance and Administration has provided a factsheet called "What Happens If I Am Made Redundant?", and the site is hosting job ads for the forgotten casualties of an Election Night.

(BBC not responsible for content of external websites.)

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By Mark Mardell Chief political correspondent

Labour strategists are bracing themselves for a very bad night in the South East, but say they think things will be brighter for them in the marginals of the Midlands and the North.

They admit that this is a probably the Iraq factor. It's terrible news for Tony Blair because obviously it's the South where he was considered to have special appeal.

My hunch is that there will be a lot of mobile phone conversations among senior Labour people about what this means for his leadership.

Serve a full term? Blair is damaged goods. I think Labour should return him to sender. Hail Gordon Brown, Chancellor and PM thereafter.
Andy Sithole, Upminster, UK

I commend Tony Blair for standing up to incessant vilification from the Tory Party and the Tory press and not once stooping to the politics of the sub-gutter.
Ken Jones, Stockton on Tees, UK

The poisoned chalice is more than just the referendum on Europe, it is also the economy. I foresee a much bigger shake up than can be imagined over the next two years, with Gordon perhaps a scape goat and not a successor as has been presumed.
R Davies, Cardiff, UK

Not a chance he will see it through. He will pass the poisoned chalice that is the referendum on the European Constitution to Gordon.
Emma, North Shields, UK

If he said he'll serve a full term I believe he'll do just that.
Mark Goodwin, Rochdale, UK

I'm finding it a bit peculiar that hostility to TB is always attributed to the 'Iraq factor', as though that were the only reason conceivable. He's such a darling, is he not.
Ysabel Howard, Richmond (Surrey)

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By Mark Simpson BBC News

There's no chance of Tony Blair nodding off to sleep as he watches his fate unfold on early morning television.

Unlike some other candidates, he didn't have a sleepless night on Wednesday worrying about the result. In fact, he slept like a log. How do we know? Well, he told us at a Polling Day breakfast in Sedgefield.

After following his every move up and down the UK for the past four weeks, the foot-sore travelling Press shared sausage sandwiches and cups of tea with the wide-awake PM. His prediction of the election result? He simply shook his head, shrugged his shoulders and said "you never know".

Looking even more energetic on Polling Day was Alastair Campbell who was spotted out for a 8am run round the streets of Sedgefield, in a sweat-soaked Burnley football shirt.

The previous night he was seen wearing a shiny British Lions rugby tracksuit top. The message is clear - we're still 'fit' for Government. As for the media, pass me the coffee...

The next parliament could get quite interesting. Labour rebels, reliance on Paisley's dupes. You could see Gerry and the bhouys taking their seats. Fun and games for all
C Baker, Bangor Northern Ireland

Sleepless night? I hope so; it is far too interesting to sleep through. This isn't football, rugby or even the Olympics. This is real competition that really counts. Wouldn't miss it for the world. Pass me the coffee . . .
Henri, UK

It's not coffee you want, it's rum & coke... caffeine in the coke to keep you awake, rum to dull the tedious moments!
Emma, North Shields, Tyne & Wear

He told you/us he slept like a log? That says it all.
R Davies, Cardiff, UK

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By Mark Mardell Chief political correspondent

A historic struggle is going on between the forces that believe in public services and those committed to market values. No, not the political parties' ideological differences, but whether the gigantic TV screens at Labour HQ are being tuned to BBC One or Sky News.

I'm delighted to report that at the moment the BBC is winning despite the techies switching over at a crucial moment, which they said was boring. Sky must have been at an even more boring moment, as it was soon switched back.

Well I switched over to ITV a couple of times - but while the Beeb had Bozza (Boris), Hizza (Hislop), Paxo and Shirl(ey Williams), ITV seemed to be interviewing Nicholas Parsons. Nuff said.
Rosalind, Cranbrook, Kent

Don't forget to mention ITN, we live a three party system in this country!
BK, Plymouth, UK

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Earlier this week we offered you a party pack of goodies to make election night just that bit more special.

Students Ian Martin, Peter Bliss and Sarah Maynard here model the masks, as photographed by Chris West at their party in York.

Anyone else having a party is reminded to send photographs for a special gallery we will publish tomorrow. E-mail them to us at newsonline.features@bbc.co.uk (reading this page of instructions first).

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By Guto Harri Political correspondent

Scarves ready

Michael Howard's battlebus - no, not the one that was taken off the road because of an out-of-date tax disc - has a bright future ahead of it.

This weekend it will be stripped of all its blue coating and slogans and refitted for its next task, beginning Monday.

It's becoming Rod Stewart's tour bus. Write your own jokes.

Tori, Tori, Tori (Out with the boys tonight)
S Tedder, Leicester, UK

The first cut is the deepest?
Candace, New Jersey, US

Stripped of the Conservative blue livery and emptied of the handbags and gladrags of the previous guests, the bus said "Do ya think I'm sexy? Tonight I'm yours." "Stay with me," replied Rod, "Blondes have more fun."
R Davies, Cardiff, UK

Rod Stewart and Martin Quittenton wrote the song "Maggie May": 'Oh, Maggie I couldn't have tried any more.' or 'The morning sun when it's in your face really shows your age But that don't worry me none in my eyes you're everything' or perhaps 'Oh Maggie I wish I'd never seen your face, you made a first-class fool out of me.'
David Petherick, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

I feel that after tonight Michael Howard may as well go and make his living playing pool. Cause his shallow, negative campaign will be seen through by far too many.
Peter Clark, Langley Mill, UK

Rod Stewart has already made his comeback; he doesn't need to worry about what bus he uses. Given the lack of modernisation of the Conservative Party (good name) maybe they should select for transport, next time, something leftover from the London-Brighton rally?
David Naylor, Mexico City, Mexico

Hmmm! Wake up Maggie I think I've got something to say to you.
David McElroy, Dumbarton

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The British are not quite used to the idea of queuing to vote - remember the heartwarming scenes in South Africa's first post-apartheid elections, or the more controversial ones in Florida during the US Presidential elections of 2000?

But there was a whiff of indignation tonight in at least two constituencies.

In Watton, Norfolk, police reportedly had to persuade some 50 people to go home after they staged a sit-in. They complained they hadn't been able to vote before the door was shut at 10pm because of the queues. Ribble Valley too has reportedly seen people turned away from two polling stations for similar reasons.

UPDATED 0045BST: Police say the report of the sit-in at Wootton have proved unfounded, but some 40 to 50 people who were uable to vote because of long queues say they are going to register a formal complaint.

Polling stations are open 7am-10pm. That's 15 hours in which to vote! What on earth were these people doing all day that they had to turn up in the last few minutes of the poll?
Stuart Foulstone, Sheffield

Their jobs, perhaps SF? Not everyone spends all day in their local constituency. Personally, I was working away from home the day before so I woke up on polling day elsewhere, went to my own office, then got home at 9.30pm - and went straight to the Polling Station. Remember also, SF, that some people even work 15 hours or more in one day.
Adrian Grant, Reading

I think you will find that many commuters leave home pre-7 a.m. and do not arrive home until 19.30 hours, presumably keeping the economy functioning. Hence the scramble to arrive at the polling station after dinner i.e. post-9p.m.. Not much time after all is there?!
Julie Davey, Saffron Walden

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By Guto Harri Political correspondent

Relieved though they are by the BBC's exit poll, the Tories are not taking it too seriously. Lynton Crosby, their campaign chief, has just reminded everyone here of the time that he telephoned a serving prime minister in Australia to tell him he was no longer in power - on the basis of an exit poll that turned out later to be wrong.

It was, no doubt, a pleasure to call him back with that bit of information.

We are sitting in New York away from all the good election coverage (no Dead Ringers, no Rory Bremner) hanging on every word from the bbc website, it's only 6.55 here, we are drinking beer and making supper waiting for it all to happen
Lesley Bennett, New York, USA

I really hope this election gets as exciting as that of 1997 with shocks, surprises and embarrassments. It really is about time the branches were shaken and the dead leaves shed. The Labour government arrived on the back of a mass of public opinion gleaned through surveys and polls. That is now long forgotten and not mentioned. It will be an interesting morning.
R Davies, Cardiff, UK

The exit polls appear fine after three seats but the marginals are going to show completely different stories. I predict the Tories to flatline with major gains to LIb Dems.
Matt Bingham, Nottingham

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By Mark Mardell Chief political correspondent, at Labour HQ

Labour are admitting that there has been "a drift-off" of voters, but are claiming that it could prove that their strategy was absolutely correct. They say that the Conservative vote doesn't appear to have increased at all and any gains they make will be as a result of people staying at home or voting Lib Dem.

Expect Labour candidates and ministers to claim throughout the night that this is still a great historical result that they have won a third term and the Conservatives have shown that they are not ready to form a government.

The biggest shame is that the real issues didn't come up in the electoral debate. The election period was al about managerial efficiency and not about conviction or belief. While I do not think the Tories have got every detail buttoned down I passionately believe in small government and personal enterprise underpinned by a caring society based on respect and tolerance. I don't see any of this in Labour or the Lib Dems so I am prepared to give Howard a chance.
Stephen Bell, Elmdon, Essex, UK

Looks like another Labour victory, a smaller majority so perhaps the Lib Dems can have some influence over policy and the Conservatives are still nowhere near Labour. A good result I think! Why Tony Blair should step down having won a third term despite Iraq shows that on the issues that matter, that shape the future, he is the most popular leader.
Lee, London, UK

Well, the most consistent pattern in the first three declared results is BNP gains! i hope the "drift off" isnt heading too far right.
Adam Corner, Cardiff

This is going to be a dire night for Labour, but they will hang on. I think it will be the beginning of the end for Tony Blair though. However, the Conservatives seem to be flatlining. Any gains they make will be from voters switching from Labour to Lib Dem, so Michael Howard might be out the door soon as well. I don't think anyone can call this election boring now.
David Patrick, Reading, UK

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By Alan Connor The Daily Politics

Not Apathetic, where people are giving their reasons for abstaining, is having a very busy day of it: and has spawned a twin.

I Voted For You Because lets you enter your postcode and, if you voted for the winner in your area, you tell them what their mandate is. As we brace ourselves to be relentlessly told "what the results clearly tell us", the actual reasons for votes cast should be a useful corrective.

Most recent post: "I voted for you because you told me you'd be a stroppy backbencher from now on - and I'm looking forward to it!" (BBC not responsible for the content of external websites.)

I still think there should be a box on every ballot paper for 'none of the above'. If you want to vote and there is no-one you want to vote for then all you can do at the moment is spoil your paper or not bother at all.
David Patrick, Reading, UK

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By Mark Mardell Chief political correspondent

Very early days, but I get the feeling that none of the parties really believes the exit poll is right.

Certainly while Labour are being very cautious, the underlying mood is one of great confidence - although they are braced to lose some high profile seats like Blaenau Gwent and Rochdale. It looks as though Foreign Secretary Jack Straw is safe in Blackburn, although it's pouring down and his majority could be cut by up to 3,000.

I sense that the real losers of the night might be the Liberal Democrats, at least in terms of seats, although they will point out that any increase will be a record breaker for them.

I only voted in the local election but exercised my right not to vote in the general election. I want a fair electoral system. It seems politicians are more concerned with the number who don't vote than the fact that if you vote for the Labour party your vote is "worth" almost four times as much as someone who votes for the Liberal Democrats.
Tim Woodall, Watford, Hertfordshire

Given the majoritarian voting system, the Liberal Democrats have always been the losers in terms of seats, nothing surprising there. Proportional representation would do wonders for the Lib Dems, and would reflect the support they have from the British public.
Sarah McDaid, Clydebank, Glasgow

If the Lib Dems don't do better than the exit poll predicts, it's looking like the Iraq war perhaps weighed less heavily in the voters' minds than the media coverage over the last ten days would suggest.
Andy Chadwick, Farnham, Surrey

As an ex-pat living in the US I have to admit to feeling a little nauseated at the apparently toothless campaign waged by the Tories.It would seem to be the best thing for Britain if the result of such an astonishingly indifferent performance was that they simply accept what Labour had to in 1992 which was that they are no longer in touch with the modern British electorate.
Martin Hyde, Sarasota,Florida, USA

It does seem very unfair when you look at the share of the vote and how it translates to a disporportionate share of seats, especially for the Lib Dems. Whatever happened to the drum they used to bang for proportional representation? Have they resigned themselves to always being the third choice?

I would certainly have voted for them if it wasnt going to be a waste of my vote but in my constituency the first past the post is clearly either going to be Labour or Conservative. It is frustrating to be so disenfranchised especially now there is so little to choose between the main two parties.
Charles Darrington, Reading, Berkshire

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Each day we handpick one of your e-mails.

This from Robin Harley, Shoreham by Sea, West Sussex.

I just looked out of my bedroom window and saw this in the sky. Given that it's 5 May, what could be more appropriate for polling day? Two pilots on different headings? Rather like the leaders of the two main parties. If anyone wanted to inspire people to go out and put an "X" in the box, then this would be the perfect way.

There are no comments on this story yet.

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POSTED: Thursday 5 May, 2200BST

The dignified silence is over - which means the Election Monitor can return to active duty.

Just as over the past four weeks, the cream of our correspondents will be pouring themselves into this weblog. And, as ever, your comments are welcome.

To any newcomers joining us for the first time tonight, welcome. You can add your comments to any item by clicking the "Your comments" link. This will take you to a fuller page with a form on it, which is where a selection of your remarks will then appear.

As as the seconds tick away, let the fun begin.

I will preface this with the fact that I am a card carrying, small-c Conservative. A Libertarian, one might say. Much like Canada, you have a Tory Leader with the panache of a mannequin. Similarly, a sheltered "rich kid" poses as a "man of the people" for Labour (in Canada... Liberals). Looks like y'all have the same dilemma we have here. Labour, Tory....same old story. It's good to know the Commonwealth countries still share some fine traditions. When will we ever learn?
Goldie Powell, Toronto, Canada

The most important post-election announcement will be by Tony Blair. To avoid being a lame prime minister, he needs to give the date when he intends to resign as Prime Minister. And he needs to announce his plans for trying to appear to distance himself from supporting any particular successor whilst taking steps to ensure his personal choice succeeds him in this post!
Barry Wilkinson, Thetford, UK

Patiently waiting for news that those who participated in an illegal war have tasted the consequences. Unfortunately though, you Brits have other issues that need attending and know that a vote for the Tories will not see implementation of legislation needed to bring your dreams to fruition. We have a similar political situation in Canada. For both countries, the cure is worse than the curse so we have no choice but to endure the curse.
Simon White, New Waterford, Nova Scotia, Canada

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