7am SPECIAL EDITION FREE WITH TODAY’S MESSENGER MEDWAYELECTION

kmfmMESSENGER 107.9 100.4 www.kentonline.co.uk/medway Friday, November 21, 2014 was called a liar, traitor, turncoat and even the Prime Minister poked fun at his backside, but after a night of drama...

UKIP HAS THE LAST LAUGH THE WINNERS ■ THE LOSERS ■ FULL RESULT ■ THE CAMPAIGN 2 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special TIMELINE: SEPTEMBER 26 SEPTEMBER 27 ►► Channel 4’s Krisnan Guru-Murthy tweets Mark Reckless after Reckless announces defection at Ukip vote on airstrikes: Your language seems quite Ukippy? conference in , sparking by-election

ELECTION 2014 RESULT SPECIAL UKIP GAIN Out at the count PAGE 4 MARK RECKLESS MAJORITY 2,920 40,113 VOTES CAST Turnout 50.67% Council win for Ukip The number of ballot papers rejected was 48

PAGE 5 MARK RECKLESS (UKIP) 16,867 42.10% Election in numbers (CONSERVATIVE) 13,947 34.81% PAGE 6 Medway on the map NAUSHABAH KHAN (LABOUR) 6,713 16.76% PAGES 6 & 7 CLIVE GREGORY (GREEN) 1,692 4.22%

On the campaign trail GEOFF JUBY (LIBERAL DEMOCRAT) 349 0.87% PAGES 8 & 9 HAIRY KNORM DAVIDSON (MRLP) 151 0.38% Profile: Kelly Tolhurst PAGE 10 STEPHEN GOLDSBOROUGH (INDEPENDENT) 69 0.17% Profile: Mark Reckless NICK LONG () 69 0.17% PAGE 11 JAYDA KALEIGH FRANSEN (VOTE BRITISH!) 56 0.14% How local businesses fared MIKE BARKER (INDEPENDENT) 54 0.13% PAGE 12 Paul Francis’ campaign diary CHARLOTTE ROSE (INDEPENDENT) 43 0.11% PAGE 13 DAVE OSBORNE (PATRIOTIC SOCIAL PARTY) 33 0.08% Hairy Knorm from the Official Monster Raving Loony Protest marches CHRISTOPHER CHALLIS (INDEPENDENT) 22 0.05% Party and Charlotte Rose from the Sexual Freedom PAGE 14 Party congratulate the winner of the Rochester and Strood by-election, Mark Reckless FM3521453 A Codger’s view PAGE 15 ...and finally PAGE 16

Labour’s Naushabah Khan puts a brave face on defeat, while Ukip leader has plenty to laugh about with the Official Monster Raving Loony Party Your Pictures: Andy Payton election FM3521418/FM3521401 team Medway Messenger editor: BOB BOUNDS News editor: SARAH CLARKE KM Group political editor: PAUL FRANCIS Reporters: LIZZIE MASSEY GRAHAM STODHART Photographer: ANDY PAYTON Graphics: ASHLEY AUSTEN Designers/subs LISA DANIELS, STEVE CONSTABLE Defeated Kelly Tolhurst and Andrew Mackness, chairman of Rochester and Strood Conservatives, are downcast, while winner Mark Reckless is centre of attention for the media FM3521401/FM3521462 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 3 SEPTEMBER 28 ►► OCTOBER 8 ►► Nigel Farage joins Mark Reckless on a walkabout Tories announce they will hold an open around Rochester, including The Crown pub postal primary to select their candidate

The candidates line up for the announcement of the results, with Ukip leader Nigel Farage waiting to celebrate his party’s victory Pictures: Andy Payton FM3521439/FM3521438 Mark reckleSS’ victory Speech

“Politics is not a popular Now we can take seats career, it takes real grit to put yourself forward for election. “Yet politics is the alternative to anarchy or despotism. We are blessed here to take it for granted. “Thank you to first time anywhere, says Reckless voters in their 70s and to the Labour voters who switched to Ukip in such numbers. kip scored a “It is the tradition of remarkable second taking the power away from by-election victory the elites and spreading it and says it is amongst the people. heading for more “It is the tradition of Usuccess after Mark Reckless levellers, charters and emerged victorious in the suffragettes. It is the tradition battle for Rochester and Strood. which gave us appointment On a long night of drama on merit, Gladstonian that followed weeks of bitter finance, universal suffrage, campaigning, Mr Reckless religious freedom and racial was eventually declared the tolerance.” winner at 4.15am. He took “The working class has the seat for which he had found a new home with Ukip. been Conservative MP since It is not Ed Miliband but 2010 with a majority of more Ukip which represents the than 3,000. His majority as concerns of most working a Conservative at the last people. election was more than 10,000. “Thank you to the The margin of his victory Mark Reckless and his wife Catriona Brown arrive thousands from Ukip who this time was not as great at Medway Park for the count, with a huge media gave up their time to as polls throughout the presence awaiting them FM3521352/FM3521348 campaign for me, I wish I had campaign had suggested and the words to express how the Conservatives took some grateful I am, this is your consolation from closing the ‘Many come to Britain because of the victory. gap and will feel they can “If we can win here, we can regain the seat at the General opportunities we offer as we create win across the country. Election in May. “People feel patriotic to more jobs than the rest of the EU’ their adoptive country, people Signalled attracted by our strong Watched by Nigel Farage, economy, our open society his party leader, Mr Reckless The six-week campaign, yesterday. important though it is, perhaps disappointing night for Labour and better future. Many come said his win signalled that which saw the Prime Minister Mr Farage said: “This what Nicolas Sarkozy has said but its candidate Naushabah to Britain because of the Ukip could win in other areas. “throw the kitchen sink” at election was Ukip against the in the last 24 hours is even more Khan was bullish in the face of opportunities we offer as we “If we can win here, we can the constituency in a desperate government. If we can win our significant, the Franco-German coming third. She said Labour create more jobs than the win across the country,” he bid to halt Nigel Farage’s 271st target seat I don’t think axis that has been at the heart needed to get its message rest of the EU put together. said in his acceptance speech. bandwagon, all came down anybody now can intelligently of the European project for the across more clearly to those They are now here as part of “You are the boss and you to list of 13 names read out by predict anything for the general last 60 years is in the process of supporters who had moved our community and they will must not let me forget it.” In returning officer Hugo Fenwick election next year. This throws breaking.” over to Ukip this time. always be welcome. a pointed comment following followed by the votes they had the whole thing up in the air. A visibly upset Kelly Tolhurst, For Medway, the “If you believe in people the row about his remarks over each polled. They ranged from “But I think Britain is on the the Conservative candidate, political drama provided a power, if you believe that the immigration, he said: “I had 22 to Mr Reckless’s 16,867 – a way out of the , said Ukip’s victory would unprecedented branding world is bigger than Europe more than a dash of support 42% share of the overall vote, it’s just a question of how long only mean that Labour could opportunity and the council and believe in an independent from people who have come with just over half the number really. form the next government and did not miss the chance to Britain then come with us.” here from other nations.” of voters going to the polls “Whatever’s happened here, lead to higher taxes. It was a showcase the area. 4 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special OCTOBER 9 ►► OCTOBER 11 ►► OCTOBER 12 ►► wins Clacton by-election, Victorious Carswell joins Farage and Reckless Labour plays down claims it by 12,404 votes, becoming first Ukip MP to campaign in Rochester High Street has already given up on the seat

Vote Clooney? When Mark Reckless entered Medway Park for the count, the sports hall became a scrum. KMTV journalist Graham Stothard was in the crush and said: “Somebody fell over and people were shouting ‘stop, stop stop’. It was like George Clooney had turned up. There were points I was squashed up against the wall. Security Above and below, the result was finally announced just after 4am today stopped people coming in and people were running through the corridors. In the end they had to usher him through ‘Exciting and exhilarating’ another door.”

The Rochester and Strood by-election made history from the off, when Mark Reckless defected from the Conservatives and sided with Ukip. He immediately announced he was resigning as an MP, triggering one of the most highly-publicised by-elections of recent years. But while his actions caused a storm of publicity, it was less than convenient for Medway Council, which had a third of Join the club the normal time to organise While other candidates turned 50 polling stations, the voting up to Medway Park in dribs and count. and drabs throughout the night Chief executive Neil Davies for the count, one of them said: “It is an exciting and pointblank refused to leave a exhilarating event but has nightclub. Christopher Challis, taken a huge amount of pictured, tweeted to say: “I’ll preparation. Picture: Andy Payton be at #CasinoRooms night “We would normally have FM3521379 club having fun! C u later.” He in excess of three months added: “The UKIP fruitcakes to plan an election. But the are out on tonight.” nature of this one, because of the resignation of Mark Where’s the sleigh? Reckless, meant we only had Going bananas a window of around 21 to 27 Hairy Knorm from the Official days. Independent Mike Barker arrived crews, he added: “Oh, lovely Monster Raving Loony Party “It has been a rush, however, in truly festive style in an ladies, come along and get into turned up to the by-election my elections team are electric buggy decked out with Santa’s sack.” at 1.30am with more than 40 very experienced and have lights. In full Father Christmas He also attracted the bananas. He handed out the administered elections for a garb Mr Barker shouted “ho ho attentions of Howling ‘Laud’ potassium and energy-filled number of years now. ho” which echoed around the Hope, agent for the Official fruit to all the weary guests and “We’re not at all complacent, walls of the large sports hall. Monster Raving Loony Party and media alike to cheers and claps. we’re aware of the importance Euphoric with the attention Sexual Freedom Party candidate of this task.” of a number of female camera Charlotte Rose. Musical chairs Rumours of when the results were going to be announced flew like wildfire around the Dad-of-four baffled by tweet furore sports hall. People stood up in anticipation like a Mexican wave only to sit back down A Rochester father-of-four who found him- Announcing her resignation, Ms Thorn- there was a by-election in Rochester and again on realising whispers self at the centre of a political storm over berry said: “Earlier today I sent a tweet Strood. weren’t entirely reliable. But St George’s Cross flags on his house has which has caused offence to some people. Asked about how he felt about Miss as the clock ticked past 4am, said he is baffled by the controversy. That was never my intention and I have Thornberry’s tweet, he said: “She is a people edged their way towards Emily Thornberry quit as shadow attor- apologised. snob – what has she got, a three-storey the stage. ney-general following an angry reaction “However, I will not let anything dis- townhouse in Islington?” to a picture she tweeted from Rochester tract from Labour’s chance to win the Mr Ware who has lived in Rochester for yesterday as voters went to the polls. coming general election. I have therefore 15 years said he was upset that his van’s First up It showed Dan Ware’s house with flags tonight told Ed Miliband I will resign from licence plate had been put on the internet. took its name flying from it and a white van parked in the .” He said: “She should ask first because literally on the night as Jayda the driveway and was captioned simply Mr Ware, 36, who works in the motor the registration number is in the picture. Fransen was the first political ‘Image from Rochester’. trade and property maintenance, said the “I will continue to fly the flags. I know candidate to arrive at Medway The image was criticised as being pat- flags been on his house since the World there is a lot of ethnic minorities that Park with her team of five. ronising and the row features on the front Cup. He said that he had voted Conserva- don’t like it. They have been up since the page of today’s Sun newspaper. tive at the 2010 election, and had no idea World Cup.” OCTOBER 14 ►► OCTOBER 16 ►► Government chief whip moves makes the first of five motion naming November 20 as election day visits as Tories adopt 'kitchen sink' strategy Quick exit for Kelly after ‘disappointing’ Tory result

Although the margin of defeat they want to the audience they was closer than some had pre- want to say it to, and we all know dicted, disappointed Tory Kelly when it comes to it the Labour Tolhurst left the count quickly Party is the party for working after her defeat was confirmed. class people. As reporters bombarded her “I believe the Labour Party is with questions, she shouted the one party that says it doesn’t back “that’s it” as she departed matter where you come from or the sports hall at Medway Park. what you background is you can The Rochester West ward achieve in life – and that’s the councillor was chosen to stand message I will be taking to the in a postal primary to select the doorstep next year.” Tory candidate. Once she had Reacting to the Liberal Dem- won that, she based much of her ocrats coming fifth in the vote campaign on being a local girl – behind the Green Party, Geoff a pupil of the former Chapter Juby said: “We’re in govern- School and a one-time Wainscott Geoff Juby won just 349 ment and the public were trying Brownie – who had drawn up a votes for the Lib Dems to kick all the main political par- six-point plan for her local area. ties but in the general election I Conservative Party chairman band as leader.” think we will do quite well. Grant Shapps said he was disap- A portion of the Labour vote “Now Ukip are picking up the pointed with the result but said went to Ukip and the party’s can- protest votes and we are coming there were “different circum- didate Naushabah Khan said she into the mainstream. I think the stances” in a by-election. “We was disappointed with the loss people who have voted for Ukip will fight every single day to win in an area she “cares about so will come to regret it this seat back,” he added. much”. “It will be interesting to see if Chatham’s Tory MP Tracey She added: “But what I’m not Mark Reckless manages to get Crouch said: I am very disap- disappointed in, and what I am the money for the hospital and pointed with the result. We really proud of, is that it’s been the tunnel and the traffic prob- fought a fantastic campaign and a very positive and strong cam- lems on the industrial estate.” Politicians from other we now have to work hard to get paign and I know we will con- Cllr Juby also said the result constituencies were also out it back at the general election. tinue the fight to the general should not raise questions about in force at the count. “It is very clear that while the election.” Nick Clegg’s leadership and From top, MPs Tracey polls were at one stage pointing Ms Khan confirmed she would called him the “safest leader” of Crouch and at a huge win for Ukip, that did be running in the election next the three main parties. from neighbouring Chatham not happen. year and promised to “go in fight- He added said it was too early to and Gillingham and Rainham “Kelly Tolhurst was a good ing”. say if he would be standing dur- were there supporting Kelly local champion and I hope she “We have to deliver a positive ing the general election because Tolhurst. stays as the candidate at the message to as many people as he will be concentrating on the Former Labour MP for next election. It is quite clear possible on the NHS, education locals but did concede “you can Gillingham Paul Clark, that Ukip are not going to form and the economy,” she added. never say no”. who will be fighting the the next government and the “Ukip have changed their The Green Party candidate constituency again in May, choice will be whether voters stance on the NHS so many times Clive Gregory said the by-elec- A pensive Kelly Tolhurst at the count. She left quickly after were there with Tristan want David Cameron or Ed Mili- and I just think they say what tion had been a good result. the result, an exhausting campaign seemingly taking its toll Osborne, the party’s candidate for Chatham. Former Liberal Democrat MP Lembit Opik was also Council defector takes a seat for Ukip too there as a political pundit.

Medway has its first elected Ukip councillor as well as a Ukip MP. Peninsula ward’s Chris Irvine followed Mark Reckless by call- ELECTION 2014 ing a by-election after he defected from the Tories to Nigel Farage’s party. And he won back his seat Peninsula ward with 2,850 votes, defeating the Conservative candidate Ron UKIP GAIN Sands who polled 1,965. Labour’s Peter Tungate fin- Mark Reckless, left, and CHRIS IRVINE MAJ 885 ished third with the Green Par- Chris Irvine ty’s Clive Gregory, the only can- didate to stand in both elections, CHRIS IRVINE (UKIP) 2,850 finishing fourth. members of this council to learn Trailing in final place was Chris to respect the views of residents RON SANDS (CONSERVATIVE) 1,965 Sams for the Liberal Democrats who I now have the honour of who received just 60 votes. representing.” The result was declared just an Speaking about the Lodge Hill PETER TUNGATE (LABOUR) 716 hour before the Rochester and proposals he added: “Please do Strood announcement. the right thing and stop this mon- CLIVE GREGORY (GREEN) 314 During his victory speech, Cllr strous development.” Irvine thanked his wife and chil- There was a 54.87% turnout dren for their continued support with 5,928 votes cast. Voting took CHRISTOPHER SAMS (LIBERAL DEMOCRAT) 60 throughout his campaign. place across nine polling stations He continued: “I would urge all on the Peninsula. FOR THE LATEST SEE KENTONLINE.CO.UK AND MONDAY’S MESSENGER 6 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special OCTOBER 23 ►► NOVEMBER 1 ►► Ed Miliband makes his only visit to the Activists stand together to prevent Britain seat, accompanied by Yvette Cooper First supporters marching through Rochester

Allhallows

Cliffe High Halstow Grain Lwr Stoke Cliffe Woods Lwr Stoke

Chattenden Hoo CANDIDATES13 Wainscott POLLING STATIONS Strood Rochester 79,163 Cuxton 50 REGISTERED TO VOTE STAFF 13,275POSTAL VOTES AT THE 160STAFF AT POLLING STATIONS80 COUNT Making a name for ourselves Spotlight offers opportunity to promote area

ormally adults would be playing badminton or children would be roller skating in Nthe Medway Park’s sports hall. But walking in yesterday evening the familiar squeak of trainers and faint smell of sweat was replaced with a frenzy of media, political parties and Medway Council paraphernalia in just about every size and colour imaginable. Medway Council chief executive Neil Davies was keen to see the area promoted as the count, right, was reported and broadcast to the country Banners more than 20ft tall hung from the rafters, of the council, said: “We are “Medway is a growing and The booklet featured people know about what promoting Medway as a hub for very keen to promote the diverse city in all but name. information on the towns as we, as a unitary authority, ‘I have been heritage, regeneration, green by-election, but also to press It is vibrant and has great well as a calendar of events, offer, from heritage to roads spaces, festivals and sporting the point to people from ambition. We’re holding the leisure attractions and a and fundamental services to disappointed how excellence. outside the area that it is vote in Medway Park, which is information on a budding festivals. The stage was similarly within Medway. a centre of sporting excellence, future of investment. “In 10 to 15 years Medway little has been said of decked out and hoardings “There has been some to push that point.” A backdrop for interviews, will be different again with all advertising the Peninsula fantastic national coverage of Media and guests were able also plastered with Medway the regeneration, including Medway. The area has ward by-election, as well as the election, but I have been to while away a bit of time in Council logos, occupied a space six miles of waterfront Rochester and Strood, ran disappointed with how little between the 10pm voting cut near the stage. development potential. been described as in across opposite sides of the has been said of Medway. The off and result at 4am with a Mr Davies added: “We have “I am desperate to promote room. area has been described mainly glossy magazine on The Towns a full array of promotional all that and what a wonderful north ’ Neil Davies, chief executive as in ‘north Kent’. provided by the council. material for Medway, letting place Medway is.” Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 7 NOVEMBER 1 0 ►► NOVEMBER 11 ►► Medway Messenger holds an election Cameron urges non-Tories to vote tactically hustings at the Corn Exchange, Rochester during a visit to the Medway Messenger office

WHERE IS HE? The media waiting for Ukip’s Mark Reckless to arrive at the count Pictures: Andy Payton FM3521362

BBC Political Editor Nick Robinson FM3521277 Medway basks in media spotlight

Rochester and Strood has been inson, assistant political editor the centre of media attention Norman Smith and John Pienaar since Mark Reckless defected from Pienaar’s Politics on Radio from Ukip on September 27. 5 Live. National newspapers, tel- Adam Boulton from Sky News evision and radio teams have was busy during the six-hour descended on the constituency wait for the result – his inter- regularly over the past seven viewees included Messenger edi- weeks as the campaign built up tor Bob Bounds and political edi- momentum. tor Paul Francis who gave their That came to a peak last night views of the campaign. as more than 100 reporters, pho- Chatham MP tographers and cameramen was giving interviews to radio arrived at Medway Park for the stations. count. And it wasn’t just British media Those covering the all-impor- at Medway Park – a Danish tel- tant declaration included the evision crew took the events of Chatham MP Tracey Crouch BBC’s political editor Nick Rob- the early morning international. being interviewed FM3521372

National newspapers, television and radio teams joined the KM Group at the count including John Pienaar, centre, and Adam Boulton of Sky News Pictures: Andy Payton FM3521292/FM3521266/FM3521261 FOR THE LATEST VIEWS SEE KENTONLINE.CO.UK AND MONDAY’S MESSENGER 8 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special NOVEMBER 11 ►► NOVEMBER 15 ►► Pollster Lord Ashcroft predicts Ukip win Police keep anti-fascist and Britain First with Reckless on 44% and Tolhurst 32% supporters apart in tense stand-off

Justice Secretary , with activists on St Mary’s Island

Right, Shadow Secretary of State for Justice Sadiq Khan visits the new community centre in Rochester

kmfm’s Nicola Everett with Prime Minister David Cameron at the Medway Messenger offices Every picture tells a story... of a by-election For the last six weeks, Rochester and Strood has Labour leader Ed Miliband greets ‘Maggie’ in pink been besieged by a succession of politicians for breast cancer awareness in wanting to grab your hand – but most of all Chatham your vote. They’ve been followed by ranks of photographers – including ours. We’ve also covered numerous public meetings. Here’s our pick of the best pictures.

The Medway Messenger by-election hustings at the Corn Exchange, Rochester

Above, an avid UKIP supporter at the hustings; right, the Mangal family meet Health Secretary and the Tory candidate Kelly Tolhurst; far right, Britain First met opposition when they tried to march through Rochester Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 9 NOVEMBER 18 ►► NOVEMBER 20 ►► The Prime Minister makes his Polling day but there’s still time for one last twist as final visit to the constituency Emily Thornberry resigns after insulting tweet

Prime Minister David Cameron at Crossrail Chatham Project, Chatham Docks

Britain First campaigners were met by these anti-fascist protesters

Mark Reckless and Nigel Farage in Rochester Castle Gardens Every picture tells a story...

of a by-election Labour’s Naushabah Khan For the last six weeks, Rochester and Strood has been besieged by a succession of politicians wanting to grab your hand – but most of all your vote. They’ve been followed by ranks of photographers – including ours. We’ve also covered numerous public meetings. Here’s our pick of the best pictures. Former Tory leader and Foreign Secretary William Hague in Chatham High Street

Labour leader Ed Miliband at a Q&A with voters at Nucleus Arts Centre in Chatham; above and above right, Ukip leader Nigel Farage and his candidate Mark Reckless at a public meeting at Hoo Institute 10 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special

BY-ELECTION SPECIAL KELLY TOLHURST PROFILE Thrown in at the deep end:

HOW @medway but will Kelly fancy another TWEETED THE NIGHT AWAY n Landslide victory for Ukip crack at becoming MP? in Rochester and Strood by-election according to first exit poll kentonline.co.uk hen she woke up one n So much @medway_council Saturday branding here tonight. morning in September, n Our editor @bobbounds65 KellyW Tolhurst was plain old is talking to Sky News about Rochester West councillor and tonight’s #RSbyelection portfolio holder for educational improvement at Medway n Political editor Council. @PaulOnPolitics is talking Then her life changed. to @SkyNews about the Mark Reckless’s defection #RSbyelection to Ukip triggered a Tory rush to find a suitable n Apparently the candidate that could put up independent candidate for the best fight against the #RSbyelection @Chris_ seemingly unstoppable Farage Challis will be out partying bandwagon. the night away @casinorooms She matched four of the main during the count criteria: She was female; she was young; she was local; she n Hairy Knorm for the was in politics. Monster Raving Loony Party Cynics might say with those just turned up with in excess boxes to tick, in Medway there of 40 bananas was not much competition. She survived an early scare in n Independent her political lift-off, just edging @MikeBarkerMBE just turned out Sevenoaks rival Anna up in a Santa suit & electric Firth by the most slender of buggy decked out in lights margins in the open primary, even though the odds seemed n Our photographer has just heavily stacked in her favour. asked Father Christmas to move away from his icicles ‘She initially took n@Nigel_Farage is keeping everyone waiting... it all in her stride, “fashionably late” they call it. swapping her heels n Chris Irvine, Ukip’s first elected Ukip councillor in for flat-heeled boots’ Medway has thanked his wife and children for their support. Then her campaign kicked off – her face adorning posters, the n And the winner of the Tory pop-up shop in Rochester #RSbyelection is Ukip! Over High Street and the copious 16,000 votes amounts of literature that have been thrust through the doors And the pick of the of voters. others... She has regularly appeared on the television and in n Sky News: Nigel Farage newspapers (not just this one), says victory in Rochester normally accompanied by the Kelly Tolhurst has been thrust into the limelight, often sharing a stage with Prime Minister David Cameron, including in & Strood would mean all Prime Minister or a senior Wainscott where a young Kelly, inset, was a pupil at the primary school bets are off for the general cabinet minister. election Goodness knows how many Cameron in Wainscott are my friends, family and The difference between these not be able to make for much miles she has walked on ‘the Memorial Hall on the same colleagues.” two alpha females, though, longer. n Paul Francis @ stump’ as the Tories pushed stage where she had been Her father, Morris, who is that Ms Khan had political The question now is whether PaulOnPolitics: @ her out relentlessly in an presented with a Brownie owns a boatyard near Medway ambitions before “all this” it has completely turned her KellyTolhurst obviously very increasingly desperate attempt achievement badge. Bridge Marina, is helping with started. off national politics and she upset and has apparently left to hold the seat, or more likely Ms Tolhurst, a 36-year-old her business, which trades She was already in place as returns to the day job, or limit the damage in the hope single woman who runs a throughout Europe and China. prospective Parliamentary whether it has spurred her on n Paul Francis: Is Adam they will grab it back next May. marine survey company, candidate, while Ms Tolhurst to seek a job at Westminster. Holloway (Gravesham Tory It’s clearly taken its toll on initially took it all in her stride, Alpha females held no such ambitions. It will be intriguing to see if MP) going to defect? You had the feisty Ms Tolhurst, who swapping her heels for flat- She went to Wainscott In fact, this was something she will want to stand against better ask him says had to shrug off a heavy cold heeled boots as the election Primary and Chapter School in she played on. Mr Reckless a second time @Nigel_Farage midway through the campaign. trail got under way. Strood and enjoys sailing from Publicly, she would in May, or if the notoriously She wasn’t even in the best Having just had surgery for Medway Yacht Club. enthusiastically say: “I never ruthless Tories will drop her n Paul Francis: Seems of health when it all started, a hernia at Medway hospital, She has played heavily on expected to be here. I’m not a like a stone. @EmilyThornberry has having just come out of she admitted to being in some her local roots, with debates career politician” as if it was a Cameron and Co have been resigned from shadow Medway hospital. She was initial pain, but said: “Such between her Labour rival virtue. “Kelly Tolhurst this and Kelly cabinet - amazing twist in recovering at her home in was my determination, I had Naushabah Khan often Privately, she would admit: Tolhurst that…” incessantly the #RochesterandStrood Borstal when she got the call. to be strong and get on with descending into claims along “I’m right out of my comfort for the last five weeks. byelection Three days later she was representing the people of the lines of: “I’m more Medway zone.” Maybe it will be “Kelly who?” standing next to David Rochester, many of whom than you!” These are both claims she will after today. Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 11

BY-ELECTION SPECIAL MARK RECKLESS PROFILE campaign quotes People feel ignored, taken for granted, over-taxed, over-regulated, ripped off He was a rebel with a cause and lied to Mark Reckless, announcing his defection to Ukip

I looked him in the eye and he told me he was not when Tory, now he’s a man on going to defect Tracey Crouch, Chatham and Aylesford MP

Mark Reckless did not have to face a by-election, he’s done the honourable a mission, in different colours thing. He’s one of the most decent people I know bar in 2007. in politics by Paul Francis Since becoming an MP, he has Douglas Carswell, Ukip’s Political Editor become something of a rebel, first MP [email protected] opposing his former party on a @paulonpolitics number of issues. I have read that there are He notably engineered a some people – probably f the Conservatives had revolt of backbenchers over the the type who are thinking their way, Mark Reckless EU budget in 2012 – the first of defecting to Ukip – who would be consigned to time the coalition had suffered present themselves at being a small footnote in a defeat. A&E with barely credible British politics. He organised his own “EU IBut they didn’t, and now referendum” of constituents injuries sustained through he wants to be known as the vacuum cleaner abuse this year – with hindsight, MP who played a huge part in perhaps an indication of his Mayor breaking through the political feelings about leaving the establishment and, in time, Conservatives. I’m full of admiration. helped trigger the UK’s exit It was this kind of action What Mark has done is from the European Union. that has endeared him to principled and is also very Following the, by-election, Eurosceptics, and, even before brave. There are people the profile of the 43-year-old September, he was often like Mark who are thinking: politician who was first elected identified as a possible defector. ‘If I really want to change the MP for Rochester and He routinely denied these things, I’m going to Ukip’ Strood in 2010 could not be claims, the most recent denial Nigel Farage, Ukip leader higher. coming barely days before Being at the centre of such his announcement he was By-elections are different; intense media scrutiny during to defect. He claims to have there is a chance for the campaign is not something wrestled with the decision people to vote in way they he has felt comfortable with. for weeks and was anguished haven’t done before He is not a natural political over splitting away from the David Cameron urges brawler and can sometimes Conservatives. supporters of other parties to come across as aloof and When he did, he might not consider voting tactically diffident. He has a slightly have expected to be so roundly ponderous delivery when denounced by his former YesweKhan making speeches, underlined Labour supporters during the campaign by the Biography appropriate President firecracker delivery of his party Obama’s campaign slogan leader Nigel Farage. n Born in Eltham in 1970 on Twitter for candidate And he can be gaffe-prone – n Educated at Marlborough Naushabah Khan in trying to articulate Ukip’s College and Oxford policy on immigration on the n Investment banker Kelly is the strongest local last day of full campaigning, he throughout the 1990s candidate, and if you vote caused a furore when he came n Married Catriona in 2011 close to what critics suggested for her it will be about you. n Has two children If you vote for Ukip, it’ll be was advocating some kind of repatriation of established n Lives in Upnor about them migrants. David Cameron A recent profile in the Sunday colleagues. Times saw a photograph of After the euphoric reaction False promises on him draped in chainmail to his declaration at Ukip’s immigration just make brandishing a shield – and annual conference in people more cynical about smart trousers and shoes. He Doncaster, he endured a politics. I won’t be part did not look at all comfortable. tsunami of abuse from former of that. I will not make But he is deadly serious about Conservative colleagues, who promises I can’t keep his politics and is a particularly accused him of treachery and Labour leader Ed Miliband passionate Eurosceptic. betrayal. The Eurosceptic Conservative He cut something of an I don’t think it would make MEP Dan Hannan was the best isolated figure when he much difference man at his wedding. Douglas returned to Rochester and you Lib Dem candidate Geoff Carswell, the first Ukip MP, sensed he might be harbouring Juby, asked whether leader was an usher. regrets about jumping ship. Nick Clegg would be joining He became an MP at the He has been dogged in the him on the campaign trail third time of asking in 2010, campaign by the alleged flip- defeating the Labour candidate flopping over Lodge Hill, Getting a GP appointment Teresa Murray, who fought initially appearing to support is like getting sought-after the seat after the retirement of it but then as a Ukip candidate concert tickets the Labour MP Bob Marshall- opposing it. If there has been an Labour health spokesman Andrews. Achilles’ heel in his campaign, Andy Burnham He was also a Medway it has been this issue more than councillor for four years any other. We want living standards between 2007 and 2011. As a hangover from the time to rise – just like this cake Before becoming a politician, he was drunk in a Commons Ed Balls, who gamely agreed the Oxford University graduate bar and missed a crucial budget to bake a cake on a campaign worked for an investment vote, he is more likely to visit to Rochester bank, then trained as a celebrate with an orange juice barrister, being called to the than a bottle of champagne. Mark Reckless at the count; and with his baby, inset 12 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special

BY-ELECTION SPECIAL How business fared

Amber Reed, barmaid at the Crown, was less stressed about the recent political attention. “I don’t think people are staying away. We’ve had quite a few political people in,” she said, adding that Nigel Farage’s September visit especially had sparked a boost in trade. “There were quite a few journalists and they all had quite a few drinks. Sky News were here and were broadcasting outside – it got quite a bit of publicity. “People are talking a lot about politics.”

Eva Kiss, an assistant manager at Costa Coffee said she had emigrated to England from Hungary but didn’t feel threatened by Businesses in Rochester have mixed feelings about the impact of recent political visits and protests in the run-up to the by-election Britain First or Ukip. “Last time I didn’t feel anything,” she said, speaking of the Britain First rally. “I think they’re not upset with people who are working. I’ve got nothing to be scared of. They’ve been in the news but Sometimes it’s been really busy – it’s good for us.”

Castle View newsagents reported a minimal impact on trade, with one staff member noting the main upsurge was have they been in the shops? from Ukip staff themselves. “They’ve come in to buy obscenities while drinking end of the High Street.” Tino cigarettes and alcohol,” he by Toby Luckhurst a can of lager,” said Mr Trimarchi, 53, co-owner of the said. “Sometimes water.” and Chris Hunter Hammond. Don Vincenzo restaurant, was [email protected] He is not the only retailer similarly quiet. “I’ve seen a Hannah Bradley, supervisor @ChunterKM who was concerned, but he lot of politicians around but at Nucleus Arts, said it was his is one of the few business I’ve only seen one camera and hard to quantify the overall The by-election has put to receive a boost in profits. nobody’s come to eat.” impact of political rallies and Rochester at the heart of Tony Lorenzo, whose bakery Scores of politicians visited media attention on business. British politics and boosted its and cafe has been on the High Sweet Expectations opposite “We’ve had Sky News exposure. Street for 30 years, says that the cathedral. in here, doing a piece on In the midst of all the cameras despite all the parties being Owner John Baldock said: David Cameron,” she said. and column inches, high street here business is the same as “The only boost in business “They live-streamed Sky businesses are feeling the usual. is when politicians want to be News on our computers and effects – good and bad. “I’ve seen it all before,” said filmed buying sweets. Though interviewed people in here. Fleur De Thé, a teashop, Mr Lorenzo, who, like many the election has brought a lot “When it went out you opened just eight weeks ago. retailers, was concerned about more people into Rochester, my probably saw about two Within days, the Conservatives appearing to take sides.” takings are slightly less than seconds worth of our shop, set up their headquarters Paul Hammond of Fleur De Shopkeeper John Baldock Staff at Morleys of Rochester, last year.” but we probably lost about opposite. “As a new business, Thé says the by-election has says politicians liked being another bakery, echoed this But he was pleased with two hours trade from their it’s been very good for us,” said been good for business filmed in Sweet Expectations view. Margaret Rushbrook said the exposure the shop got in being here. Paul Hammond, 53, who runs even though the shop is next the press, and in particular “Ultimately that’s not an the shop with his wife Cheryl. since they set up camp.” While the street last week when the door to Conservative HQ, complimented Liberal issue because it’s creating “We’ve done quite well out he appreciates the publicity, Christmas lights switch-on “I’m not interested. There’s Democrat candidate Geoff Juby a buzz – it’s something of them. There’s been a flow it’s not been all good news. The was moved a day. “It’s not been no boost in business. It’s for speaking with them for 20 interesting and different, but of MPs through the door ever Britain First march disrupted nice having them shouting all happening up the other minutes. from a business perspective we didn’t get anything out of that. “It’s created a lot of chat ‘There’s been a lot of arguing, shouting and swearing’ among customers and staff alike.” Britain First rallies had Peter Darling, manager of the Rick Furno, window. I blame Ukip – they ‘there’s better coffee next door.’ news reports, usually prefaced definitely not had a positive King’s Head pub said he hadn’t pictured, started it, and they’ve been Reckless is one of our best with the word “historic”, impact, she added. noticed an impact on business, co-owner of very aggressive as well. customers, but I said ‘rein your giving it unprecedented free “They had their music and wasn’t a fan of political Bruno’s French “Everyone knows I’m anti- people in’. advertising. blaring one afternoon and a activity on the High Street. Bakes, felt there Ukip. I’ve had to kick them out “I can’t wait for the With the pre-Christmas fight nearly broke out outside “It’s just a bit of a pain,” he had been a because they can’t behave. by-election to be over,” he period upon us, including the the shop. One of my staff said. “There’s been a lot of negative impact “We have a policy of no added, but continued with a sigh Christmas market at the Castle members went out and said arguing, shouting and swearing on trade, and was political badges and I asked one – “then we’ll have the general Gardens and the Dickensian ‘can you not do it in front of on the street. People have been concerned about the changing of them to remove his rosette election.” Christmas festivities around our shop? Kindly move’. going up to Mark Reckless and political climate. – we do that with Labour and the corner, the timing could not “It’s not great for business shouting in front of kids – he’s He said: “I’m wasn’t looking Conservative as well - he said n The exposure for Rochester, have been better. if you’ve got people fighting the one that started all this. forward to the Britain First ‘are you offended?’ I said in particular, will have been Businesses will be braced for outside.” “What they should do is get demonstration. I didn’t know ‘yes’ and he said ‘I’m offended welcomed by Medway’s tourism an increase in visitors especially together and figure out how to what was going to happen. Iwas because you’re offended.’ bosses. The town has been as the politicians and activists sort out this mess.” waiting for a brick through the Later he came in and shouted regularly mentioned in national have now moved out. Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 13

BY-ELECTION SPECIAL Analysis Labour and the Conservatives left struggling to halt Ukip momentum

t began 200 miles away to talk about immigration – a in Doncaster in late He’s followed the candidates and the so-called big hitters. He’s weak point for the party – September, appropriately rather than the NHS. enough at a race course. joined walkabouts, listened to speeches and chaired a hustings Soon after that visit, he was The event was Ukip’s forced to deal with rumours annualI conference and the that he was facing calls to quit party was in buoyant mood as meeting. Now our political editor Paul Francis looks back on a long by disgruntled backbenchers. it anticipated making a historic It was not the best backdrop for parliamentary breakthrough at campaign for the battle of Rochester and Strood. any party fighting an election. October’s Clacton by-election. Meanwhile, polls were But few could have published and the trajectory anticipated that Nigel Farage was clear. The first put Ukip was poised to drop another nine points ahead, a second bombshell. placed them 15 points ahead, There was, he told his and a third 13 points ahead. audience, going to be an The Conservatives insisted unscheduled appearance from that the only poll that mattered someone who was not a Ukip was the one on November 20. member but a Conservative MP Labour’s vote also appeared who “wanted a chat”. to be sliding down alarmingly, “I think it will be interesting with one poll showing that to hear what he has to say, a third of people who had don’t you?” teased Farage. supported the party in 2010 On to the stage strolled the would be switching to Ukip. Rochester and Strood MP As the Conservatives sought Mark Reckless. He got as far to remain publicly upbeat, as declaring he was leaving the realisation that Ukip was the Conservative party before stretching its lead forced David being drowned out by cheers Cameron to play another card. and a standing ovation. He appealed to supporters of He eventually completed the other parties to vote tactically sentence to confirm he was to to deprive Ukip of victory. throw in his lot with Ukip and In an interview with the trigger a by-election. Medway Messenger, he said: Even for Ukip, this was “I would say to people who a coup choreographed to have previously voted Labour, perfection: the announcement Liberal, Green or anything, came just one day before the that if you want a strong local Conservative conference. candidate and don’t want No one in the party had see some Ukip boost and all the it coming, not least because uncertainty and instability the Rochester and Strood MP that leads to, then Kelly is had publicly dismissed the the choice. By-elections are speculation several times. different; there is a chance for The Conservatives went on people to vote in a way they the attack. haven’t done before.” Local and national party The attempt to foster a cross- chiefs swiftly decided on party anti-Ukip alliance failed. a “kitchen sink” strategy, Despite the short campaign, Reckless had announced his haggling with EU officials. Mr Farage leapt on the plea, promising to flood the ‘The Mayor of Calais they opted to select someone defection. The Conservatives did have saying it showed how desperate constituency with ministers through a primary process. For some, that left too one card that they played for the Conservatives were. and activists to try to stop told MPs the UK was This would allow anyone who little time to halt the Ukip all it was worth: the apparent “For a Prime Minister to Ukip’s purple wave. They also lived in the constituency a momentum. flip-flopping of Mr Reckless beg voters who are by no wanted to send out a strong seen as El Dorado by chance to vote, regardless of With their candidate finally over Lodge Hill, the planned stretch supporters of his, to message about the treatment party sympathies. in place, the Conservatives development of 5,000 homes on gang up against the underdog that would be meted out to hundreds of asylum Apparently, Conservative continued to pour MPs the Hoo Peninsular. is comical. For him to cite others toying with defection. Central Office believed it would and ministers into the Having seemed to be ‘uncertainty and instability’ as Mr Reckless was subjected seekers and migrants’ be seen as more democratic constituency, told to take every supportive of the plan, he had the reason is risible.” to accusations of betrayal than Ukip’s “on the nod” opportunity to proclaim that made his new-found opposition Cameron’s last throw of and treachery from former selection of Mr Reckless. their candidate was a “strong a cornerstone of his campaign. the dice reflected the party’s parliamentary colleagues and A planned walkabout in the It served another purpose: local choice”. It became a genuine determination to fight to the ministers. Party chairman high street was cancelled. The it enabled the party to deliver electoral flashpoint, with the bitter end, but it seemed the Grant Shapps said he had “lied media was asking awkward leaflets and promotional ut with the official Conservatives repeatedly party was finally reconciling and lied and lied again”. questions. literature to residents without campaign finally citing political opportunism. itself to the prospect of defeat. Tracey Crouch, MP for Reports that Mr Reckless had counting it as electoral costs. under way, Ukip tried to muddy the In the last days, the campaign neighbouring Chatham and been counting on at least half The downside was that Ukip the party was waters by suggesting there descended into mud-slinging. Aylesford, said: “I looked him his Conservative association was left to make the running periodically being was a question mark over the A Conservative backbench MP in the eye and he denied he was officials joining him did not for a fortnight without an Bblown off course by political position of Kelly Tolhurst. suggested that property prices going to defect.” come to fruition. official Tory rival. events beyond Rochester and But it exposed a weakness would fall if Ukip won. There David Cameron told his At the end of the media From its headquarters in Strood. that discomfited Ukip. The was a row over a claim – hotly party’s conference the MP interviews, the latest high- Rochester High Street, it Calais mayor Natacha Conservatives released a video denied – that Mr Reckless had had betrayed those who had profile member of Ukip was mobilised its “people’s army”, Bounchard told MPs the UK in the style of an American indirectly expressed support worked to get his “fat arse on left to walk down Rochester many from outside Kent. was seen as El Dorado by attack advert highlighting the for repatriating immigrants. the Commons benches”. High Street on his own, cutting It was not until mid-October asylum seekers and migrants discrepancy. A Tory leaflet was criticised Ukip’s euphoria in Doncaster a solitary figure, chased by that the Tories completed the camped in northern France. Labour struggled to for seeming to link people’s was followed by a press Channel 4 political editor selection process, choosing The EU unexpectedly break through the growing fear of venturing out at night to conference in a Rochester pub Michael Crick. Medway councillor Kelly demanded an extra £1.7 billion perception that the battle was concerns over migrants. the next day. But the Conservatives had Tolhurst over Sevenoaks from the UK government. a two-way fight between Ukip It was as if the politicians It did not all go to plan. their own problems, chiefly the barrister Anna Firth. David Cameron was forced and the Conservatives. had run out of things to say. Conservative activists fact that they did not have a By that point, it was close to truncate his second visit Labour leader Ed Miliband Finally, it was time for voters gathered to ambush the event. candidate. to three weeks since Mark to Rochester because he was made just one visit, choosing to have theirs. 14 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special BY-ELECTION SPECIAL End of campaign report An unexpected by-election places the main candidates under intense scrutiny, with their every word and activity on the campaign trail analysed and assessed. So, how have those in the battle for Rochester and Strood shaped up? Our political editor Paul Francis gives his end-of-campaign verdict. Mark Reckless Had the advantage of getting a valuable head start on his rivals but had to deal with an onslaught of criticism from his former Conservative colleagues. Coped reasonably well with the pressure, but in the early days sometimes came across as a little apprehensive and nervous about being in the limelight, weighing his words with almost too much care. Unfortunately, the blokey charm of Nigel Farage only underlined that he is not a natural political streetfighter. He was not wholly convincing about his position Britain First met a crowd mainly made up Rochester people, who had come to stop them Lodge Hill, a key issue in the campaign and made a spreading a message of hatred in their home town, above and below gaffe in comments about Ukip’s position on whether it would send established migrants back. Verdict: A careful campaign in which no chances were taken. He might have to work even harder over the next six months to retain seat at general election. Noisy start but battle

Kelly Tolhurst Geoff Juby It wouldn’t have been easy for Despite being a seasoned anyone to be thrust into the campaigner, the by-election cauldron of a bitterly-fought came at arguably the worst ends on a whimper by-election – especially so for time for the Liberal Democrats someone whose only experience as it floundered in the polls. has been as a councillor. Did his best in difficult Stuck rigidly to her six-point circumstances but lacked the The arrival of Britain plan throughout the campaign support and firepower of other but often appeared to lack a parties, making the campaign First into the political detailed grasp of some issues. hard-going. fray created tension on Not someone who enjoyed When asked when Mr Clegg the media spotlight and in would be paying a visit, Mr Juby the streets of Rochester. striving to show her passion, said : “I don’t know yet, he’s got It also galvanised many sometimes seemed angry. a young family”. However, her friendly nature No senior Liberal Democrat people to show they and lack of spin meant she came minister was spotted in the across well on the doorstep. Naushabah Khan area. were not wanted. Verdict: Inexperience counted With a background in public Verdict: An honourable fight against her but if she runs relations, it was no surprise but the party will probably look Chris Hunter reports again, this will have been a that she was much more for new blood next May. valuable experience. confident about how to They made a lot of noise, their banner “They shall not communicate a message and caused chaos and disruption pass.” was rarely wrong-footed by her twice in Rochester – but in the This was not a crowd of “left opponents. end attracted just 56 votes, a wing thugs” as Ms Fransen Particularly adept at third of the support gained by called them, but a crowd scoring points over her rivals’ the Official Monster Raving mainly made up Rochester inconsistencies on issues and Loony Party. people, who had come to was clearly the best performer Corralled by the police on stop Britain First spreading in hustings meetings. Corporation Street as traffic a message of hatred in their Grew in confidence queued up behind them, home town. throughout the campaign. Britain First’s attempt to Britain First’s marchers Verdict: A solid campaign, march down Rochester High looked like a bunch who could with few if any gaffes. If she Street last Saturday came to a Britain First’s handle themselves but they had not been contesting the dismal and slightly farcical end were vastly outnumbered by-election against a backdrop in the rain. dodgers”, and the anti-fascists and when they tried to break of questions over Ed Miliband’s “We would have gone chanting: “Your flags are made the police barrier – amid the leadership, could have done straight through them,” railed in China.” pouring rain and the shrieking much better. candidate Jayda Fransen, But there was evidence of of whistles – you had to wonder trying to restore some pride to real hatred and ill feeling as who exactly the police were her remaining supporters, “but Ms Fransen railed against the trying to protect. the police stopped us.” Muslim faith – and make no It certainly wasn’t It was debatable whether mistake, there could have been themselves. The officers put Clive Gregory they would have. The right bloodshed were it not for the themselves in harm’s way to Had a good campaign and his mature and reasoned performance wing party had arrived at actions of the police. prevent what could have been at various hustings was well regarded. Rochester Station with about When the two sides met 50 an ugly scene and Britain Positioned himself as the repository of those unhappy or 50-70 supporters about three yards from the station there First were forced to retreat to disenchanted with the main parties and honed in effectively on hours earlier but were met by a was a flashpoint with punches Corporation Street where their the behaviour of bankers and in his critique of the political elite. crowd of around 300 anti-fascist thrown but officers stepped in bid to claim the High Street Unlike Cllr Juby, he did get a visit from his leader Natalie demonstrators determined to and kept the two sides apart. ended. Bennett, and the row over housing in Lodge Hill provided him stop them marching. By the time the anti-fascists “Go and buy some soap,” Ms with a good platform. There were moments of regrouped on the High Street, Fransen had yelled earlier. Verdict: A good campaign which will probably see the Green humour as the two sides lined near the Queen Charlotte pub, After their close encounter party overtake the Lib Dems. up near the station to make their numbers had grown, with her views, many of her their point – with Ms Fransen and there was determination opponents might choose to do labelling her opponents “soap to make good on the words of just that. Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special 15

CODGERS’ CLUB Our sage, David Jones, has the last word They came, they saw, but only one conquered this chalk and cheese seat

he editor has asked me to write this special election Codgers Club column for reasons whichT are still not totally clear to me. I’m assuming that he has bestowed upon me the honorary title of the Sage of Medway (no extra remuneration for honour) as I have worked in the Medway Towns – until my retirement, anyway – longer than anyone who has sweated on this supplement, or indeed virtually anyone involved in the by-election itself. My only “involvement” in this by-election was to be brushed by David Cameron’s jacket as he walked past my chair on a visit to the Messenger’s offices. I was sorely disappointed he did not take the opportunity to talk to the only other person in the room called David, namely me. I could have given him some valuable advice. But I won’t hold it against him as he seemed a likeable chap, if a trifle posh. Rochester and Strood has always struck me as an odd combination of towns for a Parliamentary constituency – a bit chalk and cheese, a mix of upmarket and downmarket, though I confess that’s a sweeping generalisation, before the residents of Rochester complain. Of course, I have no idea what the result will be, as I am writing this roughly 19 hours before polling begins. The pundits predict that Tory defector Mark Reckless will win the seat for Ukip, though it also strikes me as odd that the Tory supporters who voted for Mr Reckless will suddenly switch to Ukip. But strange things happen in by-elections when voters become intoxicated by a heady atmosphere of change, Charlotte Rose, the Sexual Freedom candidate, claims to have slept with more than 1,000 men – which is only slightly more than the number of times serial sometimes regardless of what candidate Geoff Juby has tried to get himself elected to parliament that change is. Usually they return to their For Labour, Ed Miliband has has tried to get himself elected in Ukip, with the possible senses after a week or two. been here once, along with ‘No more blatant insincerity from politicians to Parliament. No offence exception, this morning, of At times there have been a sprinkling of other senior intended, Geoff. I recall that Mark Reckless, who has had his more senior Tory politicians Labour figures. I made the who have never been to Strood before and, in you do have a sense of humour. 15 minutes of fame. in town than there are in the score Tories 16 – Labour 7. But And then there’s Ukip leader By the time you are reading Commons on a quiet day. I very much doubt if these two all likelihood, never will again’ Nigel Farage, who has visited this, it will all be over. No The PM has been here five parties’ share of the vote will Rochester and Strood four more blatant insincerity from times, William Hague twice, equate to these proportions. times. politicians who have never Chris Grayling twice, Jeremy As far as this by-election, or like Billy No Mates. No sign still, polls fewer votes than He’s a jovial fellow, who been to Strood before and, in all Hunt twice and George indeed the governnment, is of Nick Clegg during the Charlotte Rose, the Sexual likes a fag and a pint, but my likelihood, never will again. Osborne once. Communities concerned, the Coalition seems campaign nor, as far as I am Freedom Party candidate. She problem with Ukip is that it Will they all be back in Strood Secretary Eric Pickles has also to have evaporated. aware, of any other senior Lib claims to have slept with 1,000 seems to me to be a single issue, or Rochester High Streets to added his not inconsiderable I feel sorry for my old pal Dem figures. men, which is only slightly one-man show. honour the pledges they made weight to the Tories’ anti- Geoff Juby, the Lib Dems’ What an embarrassment if he more than the number of Hands up if you can name any during the campaign? Like hell Reckless campaign. candidate, who must be feeling has lost his deposit or, worse times serial candidate Geoff other figure, senior or junior, they will… THE HIGH AND LOWS, THE QUIRKY AND THE ZANY - ELECTION DIARY BACK PAGE 16 Friday, November 21, 2014 Election Special ...and finally the quirky, the odd and the downright bizarre Moments to remember – and forget

igel Farage has the complicated world of trade a good memory. tariffs but more than that, we During an are not sure. Still, it prompted interview with a witty reaction on Twitter, our political editor with Chatham and Aylesford NPaul Francis, he reminded him MP Tracey Crouch posting: how he had asked a similar “Women of the UK...burn your question – back in 1999. The bras ...or not.” question was about whether UKIP was in danger, the more n It seems David Cameron elections it won, of losing its went on a secret visit in Strood appeal to voters as an antidote on Tuesday. He popped into to the mainstream parties. Morrisons with candidate Kelly Tolhurst for an n George Osborne, Theresa impromptu walkabout. Sadly, May and Chris Grayling joined the visit was not one the media hundreds of activists bussed in were invited to. from far and wide. But there Perhaps it is just as well. were few voters out and about At least our political editor Paul Francis, left was on hand to talk to Chris Grayling at St Mary’s Island, while William Hague There were claims that his on St Mary’s Island to greet was unable to buck the by-election trend for Kelly Tolhurst and Anna Firth, with David Cameron, lacked the X Factor for voters entourage were blocking a Mr Grayling. Perhaps they had choosing the Conservative candidate parent and child space. Still, at advance warning. least he should know the price of a pint of milk next time he n Labour kickstarted its is asked. campaign with a visit by Harriet Harman, deputy party n As the campaign drew to a leader. Was she confident of close, there were signs some victory? Not exactly – saying politicians were possibly over- she was not in the business of reaching themselves. Ukip making predictions. Perhaps leader Nigel Farage sounded she had seen a rather unhelpful as if he had swallowed a tweet by the former Kent thesaurus as he spluttered an Labour MP Derek Wyatt, who apoplectic response to David said it looked is at his party had Cameron’s plea for tactical given up on the seat. voting. It was, he declared, “risible, n Some red faces for Ukip desperate, comical, straw- as a song recorded by the Nigel Farage proved to be clutching, rudderless.” At least, former Radio 1 DJ Mike Read something of a Memory Man, that was, according to a florid supporting the party was while Mark Reckless, below, press release. withdrawn – just a day after recovered from a campaign Nigel Farage described the stumble n The Conservatives have been song, sung with a faux Calypso keen to emphasise that their accent, as “a bit of fun.” candidate Kelly Tolhurst was Ukip activists had been the “local” candidate. Or as urging people to try and get David Cameron put it: “She is it to the top of the download a hard-working, local person, charts. born and raised locally.” We think we have got it now. n Journalists covering the by-election campaign found it n Mark Reckless nearly rather confusing when it came provided a You’ve Been to dealing with press officers. Framed Moment during the The Conservatives had two Medway Messenger’s hustings called Richard while Ukip’s meeting. main man was also called As he took to the stage at the Richard. Corn Exchange in Rochester, It certainly called for careful he tripped on the steps dialling and texting. leading up to the platform, Thankfully, there was no just recovering his poise and such confusion with Labour, Labour leader Ed Miliband found pinkness did not necessarily equal left-wing tendencies for a avoiding falling over like a whose press officer was called fundraising bear sack of potatoes. Fortunately Danielle. And we don’t think for him, the near-fall wasn’t that either the Green party or n If, as Harold Wilson said, a supposed to be at Chatham Of It. At least he didn’t have to captured on video. Liberal Democrats can afford week is a long time in politics, ED’S BAKE-OFF Docks at the time he could be give it any money... such a luxury. then four years obviously seen on TV in Brussels at a n It’s your journalistic sends memories into oblivion. Shadow chancellor Ed Balls press conference answering n William Hague, who once moment of fame. The Prime n Prize for the most inaccurate Labour was unhappy with a took on a spot of cake-making questions about that £1.7bn led the Conservatives, was the Minister is in the office, report on the candidates story in , picked during a visit to Bruno’s being demanded by the EU. last person to win a by-election looking over your shoulder, vying for the seat goes to up by the Messenger, that coffee shop in Rochester High Still, he eventually made it by a party in government, and asks you what story you the Evening Standard. It they had practically given Street. Indeed, he took it all to a second event at the Brook when he took the seat of are working on. Medway published a two-page feature up any hope of winning the quite seriously and even tried Theatre, albeit rather later. Richmond, in Yorkshire, and Messenger reporter Chris on former Olympic rower by-election. to adjust the recipe for the saw off a challenge from the Hunter could have made up James Cracknell, stating that Absolutely not so, said carrot cake, suggesting the n Ed Miliband hadn’t SDP back in 1989. So, a useful some big investigation into he was being tipped as the the party’s constituency mix needed a third egg. anticipated his only visit person to have helping in some scandal. Instead he told Conservative candidate and chairman, Derek Munton. He also involving a chat with a Rochester and Strood? “All the truth: “An ad feature was about to face his most reminded everyone that in pink bear – actually a charity by-elections are unique,” he about a garage.” gruelling battle yet. 2010 “Labour came second”. fundraiser dressed as one. told our political editor Paul He missed out the the party, the former Tory Seeing the opportunity for a Francis. So, maybe not. n Failed Conservative inconvenient truth that it had replied: “I haven’t yet but I’m good bit of PR, Mr Miliband set candidate Anna Firth is clearly won the previous three and getting round to it.” off in the direction of the bear n It really is amazing what FOREIGN PARTS a fan of the X Factor, tweeting lost on a swing of nearly 10%. We wonder about the but it clearly had an attack of facts you can pick up during during one instalment that hesitation. Ukip members have the nerves and hurried away. a by-election campaign. Our This morning’s count wasn’t Simon Cowell had “gone soft” n Ukip’s first Medway to dig deeper than Tories – Mr Miliband’s aides recovered favourite was that every time even in the constituency. The after act Only The Young had councillor was veteran Peter forking out an extra fiver for the situation and persuaded the a bra is bought in the UK, £1 venue was at Medway Park, “massacred” Dexys Midnight Rodberg. Or was he? the annual subscription of £30. bear to return for a photo-op. goes to the EU. Thanks to Mark in the neighbouring seat of Runners’ big hit Come on When the Messenger asked Yes, it was just like a scene Reckless for that one. Gillingham and Rainham. Eileen. him if he had actually joined n David Cameron was from the BBC satire The Thick Apparently, it is all related to