AS a "student" of politics for more than 50 years, I consider the forthcoming General Election to be unique.

Lord Ashcroft's independent polls predict at least 50 Westminster seats may be won by the SNP, mainly at the expense of the Labour and the Lib Dem parties.

Such an interesting outcome would, in my view, emasculate both Tory and Labour parties from successfully governing the UK.

However, in the longer term, a UK coalition would have little to fear from a "handful of Ukip extremists".

A very real danger is from the SNP and I can't blame the SNP for fighting for the best possible deal for their nation and people.

The SNP in Scotland is directed by an astute tactician in Nicola Sturgeon and is most unlikely to show any mercy towards the "wishy washy" English leadership.

The brilliant Scottish chieftain, Alex Salmond, leading his brigade of zealots will "wipe the Commons floor" with the English leadership and render them redundant.

The Battle of Culloden pales into insignificance compared with the Scots victory at Westminster circa 2017/18.

Then again, we English paupers could suffer another five years of unnecessary penury.

Go well and don't forget to vote.

Bill Pitelen, Belmont, Durham.