A CENTURY ago another general election was being tightly fought in Stroud.
In 1910 the lively event included a great deal of rowdiness, overindulgence in alcohol and frequent punch-ups.
Arthur Clifford, for the Conservatives, and Charles Allen, for the Liberals fought for the Stroud seat.
Results were declared from Stroud's Sub Rooms balcony, in front of which huge crowds formed.
When the result was announced, Allen polled 5,285 votes and Clifford polled 4,962 - a Liberal majority of 323.
An astonishing turnout was recorded - out of 10,992 names that appeared on the Electoral Register 10,268 actually voted - a 93 per cent turnout.
The Stroud News, as it was known at the time, reported that Mr Allen puffed calmly on his pipe as the result was declared, while Mr Clifford wasted no time in shaking his hand.
Nationally, the result was almost exactly a tie between the two main parties, so it is hardly surprising that another general election followed within the year.
These pictures were kindly passed to the SNJ by historian Howard Beard.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here