It's not often, in cynical Britain, that we can point to something and claim it to be a modern miracle. Over the next three weeks, thousands of people who do care, who can be bothered, and who are willing to get off their backsides and do something, will be knocking on the doors of millions of other people, asking them to take an interest in their community, and place their cross on the ballot paper.

Many will have doors slammed in their faces. Often, the door will not even be answered, even though the television can clearly be heard. Some will be bitten by dogs, and others savaged by children. Rejection and hostility will be their evening fare. But still they – we – do it. In all weathers. In all moods. Diligently delivering, knocking, persuading, encouraging, and hoping.