IT would be a schoolboys reunion for Dr Richard Taylor and independent Martin Bell if they won their respective election campaigns.

However, despite sounding out "the man in the white suit" about his role last year, it was only two months ago Dr Taylor realised they were school contemporaries.

Mr Bell broke the modern political mould when he won the Tory seat of Tatton in the last General Election.

The independent MP was an inspiration to many as he proved an independent could defeat a sitting candidate from a heavyweight party.

Dr Taylor sought his advice as he contemplated standing for parliament.

But it was just months ago while leafing through a handbook of old boys of The Leys School, Cambridge, he saw the name Martin Bell.

Dr Taylor said: "I soon realised who it was. It transpired that Martin, who is five years younger than me, arrived in my final year.

"It is quite a coincidence and we have spoken about it since. However, we have mainly concentrated on the role of an independent MP and Martin has given me great confidence.

"He says that the system looks after the small parties and independents such as him.

"Martin has been so successful that the people of Tatton want him to stand again but true to his election promise he will stand down at the forthcoming General Election."

However, the former BBC correspondent has decided to contest the Conservative seat of Brentwood.