Lib Dems begin voting for their next leader

Tim Farron and Norman Lamb are the two candidates in the Lib Dem leadership race. Credit: PA Wire

In the next few days ballot papers will be coming through letter boxes of the 60,000 or so Liberal Democrat members who will choose their next Party leader.

Their choice is from a shortlist of 2 candidates, North Norfolk MP, Norman Lamb and Cumbrian MP Tim Farron.

An opinion poll carried out at the end of May suggests Tim Farron is the firm favourite. But Norman Lamb believes he is gaining support throughout the campaign which has seen both candidates touring the country and attending numerous hustings, including in Cambridge earlier this month.

Norman Lamb has the support of his three former Lib Dem parliamentary colleagues in the East, Sir Bob Russell, Julian Huppert and Simon Wright.

He's also got the backing of former East of England Party President Baroness Shirley Williams. Former heavyweight boxer Frank Bruno is also supporting him.

On Wednesday another big hitter, former Lib Dem leader Sir Paddy Ashdown tweeted to say it's been a difficult decision but he is backing Norman Lamb for leader.

Lib Dem members have until 15 July to return their ballot papers and the new leader will be announced on 16 July.