Russians voted in a presidential election on Sunday expected to deliver victory to Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's chosen successor and a blow to Moscow's tarnished democratic image in the West.

Opinion polls predicted a big win for 42-year-old St Petersburg lawyer and Kremlin official Dmitry Medvedev that should ensure Putin stays on as the power behind the throne.

The focus will be on the turnout because a low one could take the shine off Medvedev's victory. Analysts say the Kremlin wants to ensure a turnout of at least 70 percent.

"I voted for Medvedev. I think he's young and clever and will work well in tandem with Putin," said a 70-year-old Moscow resident who gave his name as Georgy when he cast his ballot in the snowy Russian capital.

Medvedev cast a vote for himself in the morning, accompanied by his wife, Svetlana. "I feel good. Spring has come," he said.

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Kremlin opponents accused the biggest television stations of slanting coverage in Medvedev's favor and noted election officials had barred some opposition challengers from running.

Andrei, a 22-year-old student who also gave just his first name, said: "I voted for Medvedev because I think he's the best candidate but I wish there were more serious candidates in the election."

Russia is enjoying a long economic boom, fuelled by record prices for oil, gas and metals. Most people see the double act of Putin and Medvedev as prolonging their new-found prosperity.

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