6/5/2008

News

ELECTION: Former Sun man says this is just the beginning

KELVIN MacKenzie has vowed to stand for election again despite losing Weybridge South by more than 450 votes.

The former editor of The Sun, who was campaigning against the 43% increase in car parking charges at Weybridge Station, polled 227 votes as he lost out to Tory councillor Glenn Dearlove.

Mr MacKenzie however said this year’s campaign was just the beginning of his fight against what he sees as the excesses of the Conservative-run council.

He plans to raise his local profile before standing in next year’s county council elections and then in two years time in the borough.

“People cannot be expected to know who I am a few weeks before the election,” he said.

“I am now going to launch the Red Mist Party for anyone who is angry but impotent. Any time anyone feels angry they can come and join us.”

Leader of the council Roy Taylor wished Mr MacKenzie luck, but was delighted by the strong Tory vote.

“I believe the public should have a choice with candidates, but I am pleased to see that Glenn Dearlove was returned with a margin larger than last time he stood four years ago,” he said.

“I suggest the headline should be Tories 1, The Sun 0. “

Liberal Democrat candidate Matt Barr polled 192 votes, with 36% of registered voters turning out.

First printed in: News & Mail Series

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