News of an imminent general election though hardly surprising was greeted with enthusiasm in one of Scotland’s most hotly contested battle-grounds.
Perth and North Perthshire is a key seat, with the SNP and Tories having had some titanic tussles over the years.
The constituency is held by the SNP’s Pete Wishart, with farmer Peter Lyburn lining up for the Tories.
Mr Wishart has represented the area at Westminster for nine years and is again the SNP’s candidate.
As Gordon Brown announced the date of the election both the main players looked ahead to a month of fevered campaigning.
Mr Wishart said, “This is possibly the most important Westminster election for a generation and the people of Perth and North Perthshire need someone with real experience to work on their behalf.”
Meanwhile Mr Lyburn went on the offensive, calling on Mr Wishart to openly discuss the “issues” facing the area.
He said, “People are weary of a man who will not debate the issues or defend some of the dreadful decisions made by the SNP but will happily launch petty personal attacks.”
Lib Dem hopeful Peter Barrett said, “Fairness is at the core of my campaign.
“That means fair taxes… fairer, cleaner politics and a fairer, greener economy.”