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Lembit Opik a cheeky outsider in what is largely a two-horse race

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The Chicken Dinner boys talk us through the next Lib Dem leader market

These are anguished times for the Liberal Democrats. It is never easy to knife an old man in the back, however gently and politely the act is performed. All those Lib Dems still racked with guilt, however, should turn to Strictly Come Dancing in search of confirmation that they did the right thing. The first three weeks of the nation's second favourite talent show have seen the voting public cull the three oldest contestants like badgers. Not even a miniscule spangly Latin mini-costume could have prevented Sir Ming's fortunes from discovering a new basement - old age is unfashionable everywhere this season. So the Libs were right to throw him out. Or at least place him thoughtfully in the recycling.

The favourites

The third party's anguish is far from over - now they've got to choose between Nick Clegg and Chris Huhne, two of their favourite sons. And what a tough choice it is. Not since Lembit Opik (460 on Betfair to be elected next Lib Dem leader) had to pick one Cheeky Girl over the other has anyone had to decide between two such similar options: both educated at Westminster School, then Oxbridge, both former financial journalists, both MEPs, both entered parliament in 2005, disturbingly similar haircuts. As the older man, Huhne could be forgiven for being in a permanent state of rage at Clegg's shameless waterskiing behind him. Especially when Clegg has had the nerve to deviate from the path by not copying Huhne's shade of grey up top.

Nick Clegg, 40 (1.34 on Betfair)

Reasons for popularity: Young, easy going, media capable. Holds a very safe seat (Sheffield Hallam), has been described as "young and charismatic," (although keeps the latter quality strictly rationed to the casual observer), and ironically, in that he stands to be the greatest beneficiary, appears not to have a speck of blood in his hands from the Sir Ming episode. Has the support of the party's leading MPs and grandee Lord Ashdown. Is believed, or rather hoped, to provide a greater threat than Huhne to the Tories in key marginals. Major disadvantages: Lack of experience. Devastatingly underwhelming liberal quote: "If the Lib Dems are going to change the tired old pattern of British politics, we are going to have to be bolder. We are going to have to move out of our comfort zone." Clegg is yet to reveal his blueprint for achieving this.

Chris Huhne, 53 (4.0 on Betfair)

Reasons to believe he stands a chance: Came a close second in the last leadership contest, is capable of staying awake during even the most tedious economic and financial small print, and is presenting himself as the greenest of green candidates. Inadvertent pro-gambling remark: "I think too many people are imprisoned by bad luck...and I want to free them." Major disadvantages: The word "arrogant" has attached itself to him in the same way that no one can write about Phil Spector without mentioning the words "wall of sound." Believed to be in on of the Ming plot. Soul-destroyingly limp position: "I believe in a fairer, greener society where we put people in charge." As opposed to...?

The outsiders

Most of the names that found themselves thrown in the hat have since climbed out, although "intellectual powerhouse" and Tory-in-disguise David Laws (250.0 on Betfair) has not yet ruled himself out. Former leader Charles Kennedy (65.0 on Betfair) has ruled himself out at every opportunity, although his admirers will insist on chivvying him toward standing.

The vote

Nominations close on Halloween, ballots go out on November 21, winner is announced on December 17. Mr Clegg says he hopes the contest will not be about personalities. Given the scarcity of them, that shouldn't be a problem.

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http://www.chickendinner.co.uk/