Despite Lindsay Hoyle’s 1997 majority which stood at a shade below five figures, Chorley remains to many the classic marginal where parties must win in order to triumph in a general election.
The Conservatives won here in 1970, only to lose four years later. When Margaret Thatcher came into office, the seat returned to the blue column where it stayed until 1997 and New Labour’s all-conquering campaign.
Chorley, set in the heart of Lancashire's countryside, is surrounded by wide-open parks, moors and woodland.
Since 1498 it has been known as Lancashire's market town and Lancastrians come from all around to market their goods in the town square.
The seat boasts stately homes, parks and gardens and there are many fine examples for architecture including the renowned Astley Hall which dates back to the 16th century.
The oldest of Chorley's historic buildings is St Laurence's Church which dates back to the 14th century. For all of this, perhaps the town is best-known for its Chorley cakes, a biscuit made from short-crust pastry and currents which was invented during medieval times as a snack for long journeys.