COUNT BINFACE TO STAND AGAINST FARAGE IN CLACTON BY-ELECTION

Count Binface confirmed he will contest the Clacton by-election against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The by-election was triggered by Mr Farage's resignation as an MP on Tuesday following accusations regarding his funding. Count Binface, a character created by comedian Jonathan David Harvey, stated on social media that he would stand as a unity candidate and pledge to build at least one affordable house.

Labour, the Conservative Party, the Liberal Democrats, the Greens and Restore Britain are all boycotting the by-election, according to reports. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described Mr Farage's resignation as a "political tantrum". The by-election leaves Count Binface and independent candidates as the only opposition to Mr Farage's path back to Parliament.

Count Binface previously stood in the Makerfield by-election, which was won by Andy Burnham, receiving 0.2 per cent of the vote. The by-election in Clacton will now proceed with limited major-party participation. Mr Farage has faced questions about his finances, including reports of an undeclared £5 million gift from a crypto-billionaire, which he has characterised as a contest between the people and the establishment.