Two years on, Team cameron is no more

They were the close-knit group of backroom colleagues who propelled Mr Cameron into Downing Street – sharing junk food, long-distance train trips and the frustration of opposition.

But now, two years into Government, Team Cameron is effectively no more. First to go was Andy Coulson, brought down by the phone hacking allegations at the News of the World. Then James O'Shaughnessy, Cameron's chief policy advisor, left to work in the private sector. He was followed by Steve Hilton, who moved away to California. Now Gabby Bertin – officially press secretary but also a close confidante – is expecting a baby in January but plans to return to Downing Street in time for next year's Conservative Party Conference.

The departure leaves Mr Cameron's chief of staff Ed Llewelyn, gatekeeper Kate Fall and director of operations Liz Sugg, who recently returned after three months off. Ms Bertin is expected to be temporarily replaced by a special adviser working for another Cabinet minister.

In the meantime, Mr Cameron will have to make do with a new set of aides – who won't know what pasty he likes on the last train home from Doncaster.