LIBERAL DEMOCRAT: Michael Moore, 31, hopes to take over from Sir David Steel. Son of the manse. Educated in Jedburgh and Edinburgh University.Worked as researcher to Lib-Dem MP Archy Kirkwood before going into corporate finance.

CONSERVATIVE: Alister Jack, 33, runs two diverse businesses - marquee erection and archiving. Dumfries-born and educated at Glenalmond. He is married, with two daughters and a son.

SNP: Ian Goldie, 56, used early retirement to enter politics. South Edinburgh home. Hillhead-born and educated at Hutcheson's Grammar and Glasgow University prior to career in marketing. Switched to teaching. Joined SNP 30 years ago. Re-married, with two children and two step-children.

LABOUR: Keith Geddes, 44, born in Selkirk and schooled in Galashiels. Qualified as a teacher but switched to community work. Gained a diploma in housing. Worked for Shelter, became a Lothian region councillor in 1982. Leader of Edinburgh City Council and president of Cosla. Married with no children.