Not since Francois Mitterand left office in 1995 have the socialists of France held the presidency of the country.

But with an election in three months, they have a pretty good chance this year.

Their candidate Francois Hollande is not the most recognizable politician in France but he is well ahead of President Sarkozy in the polls.

Paris correspondent Christian Fraser caught up with him on the stump in the Var region of southern France.

This is an extended version of the broadcast item.

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