IF a week is a long time in politics, then what's 20 years plus on the campaign trial?

Alan Whitehead, who first contested the Southampton Test seat in 1983, is fighting his sixth election battle this year.

The style of campaigning has naturally changed. Considerably fewer public meetings command his attention these days but the one-to-one confrontation on the street or at the doorstep remains a constant theme. It is something he still enjoys, as was evident at Shirley precinct on Saturday as he chatted to passers-by.

"You never know what they're going to ask," he explained. "There's no hiding place, no spin, you're on your own."

He could be perhaps excused for thinking he's heard it all before but one person raised one matter that's hardly on everyone's lips - the question of fluoridation of water.

"Contrary to what you might read in the media, people are engaged and thoughtful about issues when you talk to them. And by and large, people do appreciate you knocking on doors and talking to them.''

Local issues in 2005 concern the bus service, the state of the roads and housing. Nationally, it's the National Health Service. Surprisingly, immigration is not a topic that's much raised.

"Things are going well," he said of his prospects of being re-elected.

His right arm, however, does not agree. He has just signed 16,000 letters to the electorate about his record in the division and his future plans - and the arm knows it!