Blair Odds On To Step Down In July

Bookmakers William Hill have seen a run of money for July to be the month that Tony Blair steps down as Prime Minister, as punters preempt a dismal performance in May's local elections prompting a swift handover.

William Hill also offer 5/2 June, 4/1 May and 11/1 August.

"Punters are confident that the results of the local elections will bring forward the date that Mr Blair stands down," said William Hill's spokesman Rupert Adams.

Gordon Brown is the all but unchallenged 1/66 favourite to be the next leader of the Labour party.

William Hill have also shortened the price of Nicholas Sarkozy winning the French Election from 1/3 to 1/4 as punters continue to back the favourite to get the better of Segolene Royal, who is offered at 11/4.

"It is one way traffic with punters betting in thousands for Mr Sarkozy and only in pennies for Ms Royal," said William Hill's spokesman.