In 1955 the Conservatives made it two election victories in a row, achieving the coup of stretching their lead over Labour that they had gained at the last poll three and a half years ago.

Winston Churchill had finally let go of the reins of power in April, leaving Sir Anthony Eden to take up the Tory leadership and the premiership.

In what politicians and pundits alike refer to as the dullest post war election, Labour saw itself lose ground as prosperity persuaded voters to back the status quo.

This election saw the Liberals avoid losing any seats - staying on six - although their share of the vote dropped once more.