Caroline Reed: Showing the world it's ok to quit if you lose is NOT ok. I respect a leader who will continue to work and try harder than someone who gives up. This is a poor example to the young people today let alone the rest of the world.

Kevin: Political leaders are falling quicker than England wickets in an Ashes test match.

Christina Holland: A decent man lost today. The Tories, helped by the Tory press, used scaremongering and character assassination to win, while Ed Miliband fought on the issues. Regardless of who you support, today is a bad day for democracy.

Simon Butler: The three departed leaders have shown their true colours at a time when their parties require them more than ever. An indictment of their leadership qualities.

Former politicians are much more pleasant and engaging to listen to when they don't have to toe the party line or fear making a mistake!

I am an out and out Conservative voter who was delighted at the result but have to pay my respect to Nick Clegg. Selfless, humble and put his nation above his personal interests. Not many politicians in any party will ever do that. I hope he stays in the public eye and if David Cameron wants to be truly inclusive he should involve him.