SO the 2010 General Election is, at last, underway even though the political ‘thoroughbreds’ feel to have been cantering along for quite a while already.

To many – probably the vast number of the electorate – it is probably a relief.

Now the starting line has been crossed, the finishing line is in sight on May 6.

It’s set to be the closest election for years – the closest in living memory for many – so if the voters can’t get fired up for this one they never will.

But is also set against a backdrop where the reputation of politicians has plummeted due, in main, to the expenses scandal and other hot water politicians have found themselves in.

So it is the chance for a fresh start, for people to vote in politicians who have never been in the House Of Commons before.

All three parties have everything to fight for with the Tories and Labour too close to call and if the Parliament becomes a hung one the Liberal Democrats will then be in their strongest position ever.

With so much at stake there is a danger it could all descend into a negative campaign with the parties trying to destroy their rivals’ policies.

But the British electorate is traditionally turned off by such tactics.

They want to know what each party will do for them, not what the others won’t do.

It’s clear that millions of people have yet to make up their minds as to who will get their cross on the all-important ballot papers on May 6.

If you have the right to vote then use it. Despite the shenanigans in the Commons over the expenses, the 2010 General Election is no time for apathy.