Six to stand in election for MP

Michael Meacher MP: Former MP for Oldham West and Royton

ALL CANDIDATES for the upcoming Oldham West and Royton by-election have now officially been announced.

The seat became vacant following the death of long-serving MP Michael Meacher last month — he served the constituency for 45 years.

The election takes place on Thursday, December 3, with polling stations open from 7am to 10pm.

The candidates standing are: Jim McMahon (Labour), John Bickley (UKIP), James Daly (Conservative), Jane Brophy (Liberal Democrat), Simeon Hart (Green Party) and Sir Oink-A-Lot (Monster Raving Loony Party).

The Evening Chronicle understands that the British National Party attempted to nominate a candidate yesterday but sources say the necessary paperwork was not completed in time.

Count

None of the by-election candidates actually live in the Oldham West and Royton constituency, with Oldham Council leader Councillor McMahon the only person standing who lives in the borough.

The nominations can now be viewed online at www.oldham.gov.uk/byelection.

The count for the by-election will take place from 10pm onwards on December 3 in the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Members of the public who wish to attend must apply individually for a ticket beforehand by writing to: Elections Office, Room 222, Civic Centre, West Street, Oldham, OL1 1UL, or by emailing the Elections Team on elections@oldham.gov.uk.

The request must state the name and address of the person applying for the ticket.

Tickets will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.