After a heated campaign which has seen scores of visits from ministers, party leaders and even the prime minister (several times), the crucial Rochester and Strood vote is upon us.

The Kent constituency has been the focus of frenzied political speculation from national media ahead of the by-election.

When the voters go to the ballot box on Thursday, they could be on the brink of creating political history.

Pundits and recent polls have predicted an upset for the Tory-held seat, after sitting MP Mark Reckless stood down and joined Ukip.

But, after the electorate decides, we will be bringing you all the latest by-election news - as it happens.

During the night we will be:

• Live Tweeting updates from our reporting, photographic and video team at the count. Follow @Kent_Online #RSbyelection
• Posting to Facebook ahead of the crucial announcement. Got toKentOnline News
• Updating live and breaking coverage through the night, with news from the count, pictures, audio, video and reaction on KentOnline.

How KentOnline has followed the campaign trail

The KM Group's political editor Paul Francis said: "There is no doubt that the result of this by-election will have repercussions for all parties and the potential to change the political landscape in Kent and beyond.

"It's been described as the most important by-election in 30 years and that is not an exaggeration."