David Kerr: after 159 days it's time for a fresh

After 144 days of waiting to vote for a new MP today the people of of Glasgow North East will finally have their say.

Thinking back on the last four months, I have met some real characters.

Lauren - the school pupil from Smithycroft - who came along for a day of work experience on the campaign and ended up helping to run a press call.

And Mr Ramza, the Carntyne shopkeeper, who invited the First Minister and I in from the rain for Tunnock's Wafers and a cup of tea.

Joe, the lift engineer and RAF man from Springburn, who was voting SNP forthe first time. He used to be Minutes Secretary of the local Labour party but will be voting SNP today as he is sick of 74 years of Labour neglect.

And the young mums from the Rosemount Centre who demanded to know if I could do anything about the price of nappies - I said I'd see what I could do - and I am working on it.

These people must be the winners in this by-election.

They deserve a full-time active MP who shares their priorities and will always put their interests firsts.

I hope today the voters will put their faith in me and that is why I will be out chapping ondoors for the rest of the day working toward a victory for the SNP and the people of Glasgow North East.