Stifford Clays
THIS has been the most subtle of swing wards in Thurrock. In 2002, it had a Tory and a Labour councillor. At one stage it had two Tories but then switched back to two Labour councillors.
UKIP came close-ish in October 2013 when they polled 28% of the vote. They won the seat in May 2014, when Graham Snell polled just 44 votes ahead of Labour’s Angie Gaywood. That was an impressive 37% of the vote.
UKIP have made the Aveley/Ockendon/Belhus area a heartland and for some it was a surprise when they tacked on Stafford. Then again, over 400 people voted for the BNP back in 2008 here.
The Labour candidate is Ellie Lowe. Elie is one of a number who have taken the step up from activist to candidate. An engaging and intelligent young woman, who could be a breath of fresh air to the council chamber.
The same could be said of the Conservative candidate, who seemed to really enjoy campaigning in Grays last year.
We know absolutely nothing about the UKIP candidate but what does that matter….
We think that the Labour candidate may have done enough work to nick this one but it will be close. There is a strong familial connection in the ward (her grand-father is Dr Headon) but that may not count for an awful lot.
We just think that residents of this ward may have had their UKIP say last May. Plenty will stay but Labour will hold sway…
Prediction; Lab hold.
Stifford Clays
GAMESTER Leslie, UKIP
LOWE Eleanor, Labour
MACADANGDANG Michelle, Conservative
