The Liberal Democrat "big beasts" who reclaimed their former seats on Friday are being urged to mount a leadership challenge against Tim Farron.

Senior party figures are touting Sir Vince Cable and Jo Swinson, both former ministers, as potential candidates amid fears the current Lib Dem leader lacks the "vision and drive" to attract millions of centre ground voters caught between Labour and the Conservatives.

As the election results unfolded Sir Menzies Campbell, the former leader, tipped Sir Vince as a suitable successor to Mr Farron. He said the former business secretary had an "understanding of leadership responsibilities" and was a "genuinely heavy-hitter".