UPDATE: In a significant development, “Bionic” peer Lord Craig Mackinlay has endorsed Conservative candidate Charlie Leys in the crucial county council by-election in Thanet, scheduled for April 9, 2024. This endorsement comes as the seat remains vacant following the incarceration of former councillor Daniel Taylor, who was jailed for 12 months for coercive behavior.
Lord Mackinlay, who overcame a quadruple amputation after battling sepsis, expressed unwavering confidence in Leys, declaring him the “real deal” and promising his full support on polling day. “I have known him for over 10 years. He is honest, hard-working, and genuinely cares about the local community,” he stated.
The by-election was necessitated by Taylor’s conviction; he initially won the seat with 40% of the vote during a Reform UK landslide last May, where the party secured 57 of the 81 seats at County Hall. Following his arrest, Taylor was suspended from Reform UK but continued to serve as an independent until his sentencing.
Veteran MP Sir Roger Gale, representing the Herne Bay and Sandwich constituency, also rallied support for Leys, citing his extensive local experience on both Broadstairs Town Council and Thanet council. “Charlie has my full support. He was born locally and lives in the area he wishes to represent,” Gale affirmed.
Cllr Leys, who currently serves on Broadstairs Town Council, voiced his commitment to the community, stating, “I am immensely proud to be standing as a Conservative in the upcoming Kent County Council by-election.” He emphasized his deep roots in Thanet, living in Beacon Road with his partner and their two bulldogs, Harold and Bertie.
In his campaign, Leys has actively engaged with residents, addressing pressing local issues. “People want our roads fixed. They want utility companies held accountable instead of digging up our streets and doing as they please,” he noted. His focus is on making the community safer and more beautiful for all residents.
Leys also highlighted his professional background in marketing and events, insisting that his experiences have equipped him to listen to constituents and drive solutions. “If elected, I want to be a strong local champion for residents. It would be a privilege to represent my home,” he declared.
As the polling date approaches, the stakes are high for Leys, the Conservative Party, and the wider Thanet community. The political landscape of Kent County Council could shift significantly depending on the outcome of this by-election.
Stay tuned for further updates as this developing story unfolds.
