BBC Archive Explores Pollster's Pendulum

As the BBC reveals the brand new Swingometer for this year's General Election, a new online collection from BBC Archive tells the story of that iconic pollster favourite, the Swingometer.
Since its national debut in 1959, the Swingometer has provided a simple way of showing changes in voter support from one party to another. It has now become an integral feature of the BBC's televised election night broadcast.
As part of the BBC's comprehensive election night coverage, Jeremy Vine will be using the latest graphic technology to analyse the big picture with the greatest-ever Swingometer for the first time on a general election.
The Swingometer has developed from a simple cardboard prop to a chance to unveil the very latest in computer graphics. But whether it is constructed digitally or with drawing pins, the Swingometer has always been a firm favourite with viewers and the unveiling of the latest version has become a much-anticipated event in the BBC's election coverage.
Jeremy Vine, the new master of the Swingometer said: "At every general election since the first one I watched in 1974, I can remember straining for a glimpse of the swingometer. It went from a bit of wood on a nail to a hi-tech visual extravaganza – but always with the same purpose. To make clear the general picture from all the particular results in constituencies.
"I have watched Peter Snow for years and admire his enthusiasm and mastery of detail hugely. He has handed me the car keys and, as a political junkie, I am hugely excited to be in the studio for my first general election with the swingometer."
Roly Keating, BBC Director, Archive Content, commented: "The BBC Archive is unique in its ability to provide insight into the cultural and political developments that shaped the 20th century. On election night we take it for granted that the Swingometer will be keeping us up to date as the results unfold and I think audiences will enjoy looking back to see how this all began."
This new online collection of television and radio programmes from the BBC Archives looks back at the men who became the BBC's sultans of swing, including Robert McKenzie and Peter Snow, and recalls some famous moments in election history.
This new collection will be available online from today and can be found by visiting bbc.co.uk/archive.
(BMcN/BMcC)