Nigel Farage's Westminster bid undermined by lack of local insight, says Tory rival

Racism storm leads to party staff being sacked

Nigel Farage's bid for Westminster is facing challenges due to his lack of local insight, according to his Tory rival for the seat. The Reform leader's promises are being questioned by voters in Clacton, Essex, who are uncertain if he would deliver if elected. The situation comes after a racism scandal resulted in three party staffers being dismissed from canvassing duties.

Tory party launches last-minute campaign in Clacton

In a bid to retain the traditionally blue seat, the Conservative party has initiated a late push in Clacton with the involvement of several key party figures. Incumbent Tory Giles Watling, who defeated Mr. Farage in South Thanet in 2015, is actively canvassing voters alongside Craig Mackinlay. Watling, a former actor known for his role as vicar Oswald in the TV sitcom Bread, highlighted the importance of local knowledge, stating that while Farage has significant support, he lacks daily presence in the area.

Local residents express concerns over Farage's campaign

Despite polls showing Nigel Farage leading by nearly 30 points, residents in Clacton feel that he is not sufficiently present in the town. Former UKIP supporter Graham Bridger expressed admiration for Farage's ideas but emphasized the need for him to prove himself through consistent engagement. Similarly, 80-year-old Lyn Hutchins in nearby Jaywick praised Farage's ideas but raised concerns that his campaign strategy could inadvertently benefit the Labour party in the long run.

Giles Watling, 71, stated that he would exit politics if defeated by Nigel Farage, underscoring the high stakes of the upcoming election in Clacton.