It's neck and neck between Labour and the Lib Dems as finish line nears

4.58.57pm GMT Sat 4th Feb 2006

Willie Rennie is closing fast on Labour

Sir David Steel and Nicol Stephen MSP, the Scottish Liberal Democrat Leader, joined party candidate Willie Rennie on the campaign trail in Dunfermline today.

With political pundits predicting a close result between Willie Rennie and the Labour candidate, the Liberal Democrats hit Dunfermline city centre on Saturday morning to meet local voters and drive home the message that only Willie Rennie can beat Labour here.

Speaking today, Nicol Stephen said:

"This by-election is clearly a two-horse race between Fifer Willie Rennie and the Labour candidate.

"Willie Rennie has mounted a powerful challenge to Labour in Dunfermline and West Fife and is running a strong campaign based on the issues that matter most to local people.

"I have been out on the doorsteps many times during the campaign and it is clear that more and more people are switching their votes to the Lib Dems and backing Willie Rennie."

Sir David Steel added:

"Willie Rennie will be a powerful voice for the people of Dunfermline and West Fife. He will make an excellent addition to the growing team of Liberal

Democrats at Westminster holding Tony Blair's government to account."

Willie Rennie continued:

"My campaign has really struck a chord with local people. I am fighting for new secondary schools for Dunfermline and the West Fife villages, a commitment to strengthen our local health services and action to transform Dunfermline city centre.

"Also, the tolls issue is still very much alive and I am determined to keep up the pressure on Labour controlled FETA to withdraw its £4 toll hike plan.

"The Lib Dems are closing the gap on a beleaguered Labour campaign and we are winning more and more support every day."