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Needless to say, a big (momentous?) day in British politics, with Blair resigning, and Gordon Brown becoming the new Prime Minister.

In conversations I’ve had with folk over the years, a lot of criticism has been levelled at Gordon Brown. I’ve not been exactly complimentary of him myself. Whilst my words may not have been brimming with enthusiasm, I can’t help but get a little excited by days like this though: It’s a real chance for new beginning and I do hope that Gordon Brown seizes the moment and sets out a bold new agenda that will re-invigorate politics again.

Perhaps the most reassuring thing that happened today - for me at least - was the very obvious nervousness with which he seemed to speak to the press outside 10 Downing Street (also as reported by Nick Robinson). Perhaps we’ve grown overly used to the confidence of Blair, or perhaps I’ve simply forgotten the previous arrivals of Blair, Major or Thatcher. Either way, I do find myself actually rather comforted by the fact that he appears to be genuinely humbled by the post he now holds.

Nice too that there’s no barrage of press releases within minutes of arriving. That would almost imply too much expectation and scheming. I’m sure he’s got things pretty prepared and finalised, and that we’re in for some big surprises over the next couple of days. I’ll not miss many of the big names from Blair’s years (Hewitt and Reid in particular), but I’m still unsure that the prospect of Alistair Darling Chancellor is the best move (I was expecting Ed Balls to be honest, but perhaps he’s too green behind the ears in political terms).

Outside of the Government, the Tories on the backfoot is an added twist. The political momentum is back with Labour, but that’s perhaps natural given they’re the ones in Government, and changing leaders. But the hostility with which Quentin Davies crossing the floor has been reported in the media is quite unexpected. It’s almost as if people have forgotten it’s not new, and that even Winston Churchill did it twice? Davies is hardly in the same league, but we seem to be forgetting that we all have changes of opinion and mind, and I’m rather taken aback at how hostile the reaction given he’s merely being honest about his views. No matter, it’s minor stuff right now. Cameron won’t lose much sleep, and Davies is likely to disappear into obscurity unless he can establish himself.

Back to Brown, and I actually find myself feeling quite proud at how seamlessly the transition of power occurs in this country. I’m hopeful that perhaps we may be seeing the end - for now at least - of an overly media focused political agenda. Maybe the ‘Big Change’ will be a return to issues and a re-engagement with the public? I suppose I can keep the hope up for a few more hours!