Word reaches Guido that former lobbyist turned Clegg Downing Street spinner Olly Grender is being discussed as the LibDem nomination for the Eastleigh by-election. She’s got competition though from Dr Tim Leunig, formerly the chief economist at the liberal wonk-shop CentreForum, and now at the DfE, who is also said to be eyeing up the seat. Interestingly Olly was very quick to graciously mop up when yesterday’s news came through:

No question – a horrific day to be a LibDem and I apologise without reservation to @GuidoFawkes re defending #huhne here on twitter

— Olly Grender (@OllyGrender) February 4, 2013

News of Grender’s quest for power has been greeted with exultant joy by Tories. One source says “she upset a lot of people when she was in Downing Street.” Apparently SpAds are “dusting down their dossiers” on her. The prospect of revenge is already tasting sweet.

UPDATE: Olly denies she is interested:

@GuidoFawkes yes and "disappointing Tories" = thoroughly enjoyable blood sport that doesn't harm animals and LibDems should pursue often

— Olly Grender (@OllyGrender) February 5, 2013

Then again, we’ve had a lot of fun with Olly’s denials before…