Lib Dems Leadership Race

So it is time to say goodbye to Sir Menzies Campbell as leader of the Liberal Democrats. Menzies said questions about his leadership were "getting in the way of further progress by the party". This has raised questions as to how much pressure, if any, he was put under to resign. Since he became leader Sir Menzies, 66, has repeatedly had to defend himself against accusations that he was too old to lead the party.

Simon Hughes said the party owed Sir Menzies "a huge debt of gratitude". Gordon Brown paid tribute to Sir Menzies as a "man of great stature and integrity who has served his party and country with distinction". David Cameron said he was a "fine public servant".

The important thing for the Lib Dems now is to look the future, and the new leader they will elect. Mr Hughes, who has twice stood for the leadership, will not stand again. 2 confirmed candidates are environment spokesman Chris Huhne and bookies' favourite, home affairs spokesman Nick Clegg. Mr Huhne, who was runner up to Sir Menzies in last year's leadership election, said he had decided to run after consulting friends and family. Huhne said that he would be campaigning for a "fairer, greener society where we put people in charge''.

Nick Clegg has promised to bring "ambition, verve and self-confidence" to the party. He said third place in the next general election would be "not good enough". He has called for a national anti-terror police force and annual government targets on carbon emissions.

Birmingham Yardley MP John Hemming is also considering a run as a potential "dark horse'' candidate.

Nominations for Lib Dem leader close on 31 October, with ballot papers being sent to the party's 68,000 members on 21 November. The result will be announced during the week starting on 17 December.

Sir Menzies Campbell resigned after only 19 months in the job. It is clear that the party need to think very carefully about who they appoint as their next leader, we will let you know what we think as the race continues!