Claudia Bradley

Voters in the Clacton constituency will choose their MP in a by-election on Thursday, following Nigel Farage’s resignation and renewed candidacy for Reform UK. Polling stations will be open from 7am to 10pm, and in-person voters must bring accepted photo identification. Each voter can select one candidate from a record-length ballot featuring 33 candidates. Votes will be verified and counted after polls close, with Tendring District Council expected to declare the result around 7am; the winner will take a seat in the House of Commons.

A Thorpe-le-Soken resident, Jules Gibson-Cranch, has built a homemade Count Binface statue in her front garden to protest Nigel Farage's decision to contest the Clacton by-election. She says Farage has failed to deliver on issues including schools, the NHS and workers' rights, criticizes his voting participation and lack of constituency surgeries, and considers the by-election wasteful. The report also notes visible support for Reform UK in the area and identifies Count Binface as Jonathan Harvey, one of 33 candidates.

Clacton’s annual carnival procession brought themed floats, walking groups and performers along the seafront under the theme “Childhood Favourites.” Participants dressed as characters from Barbie, Frozen, Shrek, Despicable Me and The Wizard of Oz, while families and spectators watched the event. The procession formed part of Clacton Carnival Week, whose programme includes fundraisers, stalls, food vendors, entertainment and running events, with the carnival’s street collection supporting local charities and participating community groups.

Clacton is preparing for heightened media attention ahead of a by-election triggered by Nigel Farage’s resignation and subsequent decision to contest the seat for Reform UK. The constituency has seen prominent Reform and Count Binface displays, heated online debate and criticism of Farage’s representation, while many undecided or disengaged voters remain focused on investment, transport and effective representation. The contest is portrayed as politically significant but also chaotic and unconventional, with dozens of candidates and limited participation from major parties.

Roger Bennett, 75, of Clacton, was sentenced at Colchester Magistrates’ Court to nine months in prison after being convicted of engaging in sexual communication with a child under 16 and sexually assaulting a female under 16. He was also placed on the sex offenders’ register and made subject to sexual harm prevention and restraining orders. A family member, identified by the pseudonym Shelly, described the impact on the victim’s mental health and criticized the two-year delay before sentencing and the length of the prison term.

Lydia Forrester, 61, was convicted at Chelmsford Crown Court of stealing £78,000 from Rutland Haulage while working there between 2014 and 2019. She attempted to blame the missing funds on a fictitious Ghanaian prostitute named Linda George and made conflicting claims to probation about her caring responsibilities and health. Despite concerns about her denial of the offence and prospects of rehabilitation, the court ruled that imprisoning her would cause extreme hardship to her vulnerable teenage daughter. She received a 24-month prison sentence suspended for 24 months, along with 28 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

A Freedom of Information request by Save Our Libraries Essex found that Essex County Council had received no complaints, enquiries or comments about Pride events or their promotion in libraries before the council instructed staff not to highlight particular groups or themes. The instruction followed Reform UK taking control of the council in May. Councillor Chris Hossack said promotion of some themed events had been paused while the council reviewed its calendar, but the council maintained there was no ban on Pride events and that libraries could continue promoting activities in their branches. SOLE, whose petition attracted more than 6,500 signatures, accused the council of political interference and prejudice.

Jersey tiger moths, once rare migrants to the UK, have been confirmed in Manningtree after residents reported sightings in local gardens. John Hall of Practical Actions for Climate and Environment Manningtree explains that the species has spread across southern England since becoming established in Devon and Hampshire, reaching Colchester in 2016 and Lawford in 2023. Warmer winters linked to climate change are believed to have helped the moth expand northward, while its caterpillars feed on common garden and hedgerow plants. More sightings are expected as the species continues to spread.

Orlando Morris, 33, admitted at Colchester Magistrates’ Court to racially or religiously aggravated harassment, sexual assault of a male cabin crew member, attempted sexual assault of a female crew member and assaulting a police constable. The offences allegedly occurred on a New Year’s Eve flight from Helsinki to London Stansted, where Morris made racist slurs, sexually harassed passengers and crew, and spat at an officer after landing. Magistrates ordered a pre-sentence report, with sentencing scheduled at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on October 28.

Residents of the Bel Air Chalet Estate in St Osyth organized a surprise celebration for 93-year-old Albert “Bert” Morton to thank him for years of helping neighbours, including collecting rubbish, cutting grass, repairing children’s bikes and maintaining the estate. Led by Janet Ives and Jeanette Baker, the community presented him with a ride-on mower, a bench, a card and an engraved glass plaque. Morton was visibly moved and delighted, especially when he tried the mower.

Two wildfires within three days scorched large areas of the Middlewick Ranges at the Wick in Colchester, destroying grass, bushes and trees. Around 50 firefighters tackled the first blaze and about 30 responded to the second, while roads were closed and residents were advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors shut. The cause of both fires remains unknown. The incidents occurred during a period of severe dryness across Essex and wider England, with drought conditions, low water levels and increased wildfire risk prompting warnings against bonfires, fireworks, barbecues and careless disposal of cigarettes or glass.

Dean Lilly, 45, avoided a jail sentence after admitting at Colchester Magistrates' Court that he possessed an unloaded CO2-powered air revolver in a public place. Police found the weapon in a rucksack in his vehicle while investigating an unrelated incident. The court heard Lilly had lost his long-term job and had been living out of his car, with the gun among his possessions. He was ordered to pay £197 in fines, costs and a victim surcharge, and the revolver was ordered destroyed.

A five-bedroom detached art deco home on Cliff Way in Frinton, Essex, has been listed by Savills for £1.3 million. Designed by architect Oliver Hill, the property features front-row sea views, curved architectural details, expansive glazing, multiple en suite bedrooms, entertaining spaces, balconies and a landscaped garden. Savills describes it as a rare combination of distinctive architecture and a prime coastal setting.

An elderly couple in Clacton received a £100 penalty after entering The Range car park two minutes before its permitted Sunday opening time. Despite signage displaying two‑hour parking limits, smaller text outlined restricted hours, leading to the fine issued by Parkingeye. An appeal was rejected, and the driver paid the reduced £60 charge. Parkingeye stated that clear signage and rules are in place to prevent misuse and that motorists can pursue further appeals through the BPA‑audited process or POPLA. Changes to store and car park opening times added to the confusion.

Dale Vince endorsed satirical candidate Count Binface in the Clacton by‑election, arguing he offers a more honest alternative to Nigel Farage. Vince criticised Farage over investigations into undeclared donations, calling his resignation and re‑entry into the race a populist distraction tactic. He urged Clacton voters to question the source of Farage’s funding and expressed hope they will reject him. The by‑election features 34 candidates, including Binface and Laurence Fox, with major parties stepping aside pending the outcome of a parliamentary standards probe.

Residents in several north Essex villages report persistent swarms of houseflies, confirmed by expert analysis as common house flies likely breeding in manure. Despite repeated investigations, Tendring Council has not identified a single source, prompting residents to commission their own entomology reports and push for recognition of a public health issue. Officials say inquiries are ongoing, while residents warn of health risks and call for greater transparency and action.

A day centre in Jaywick supports adults with autism, learning disabilities, physical disabilities and sensory impairments through workshops focused on life skills, creativity and wellbeing. Staff emphasise person‑centred care, safety training and programmes that help young people transition into adulthood. Families describe significant improvements in confidence, social skills and overall wellbeing for those attending the centre.

A man who stabbed a retiree in a Clacton Lidl during an acute psychotic episode was sentenced to 25 months in prison after admitting multiple assaults, wounding and possession of a knife. The court heard he had previously attacked officers during a welfare call and later lunged at a stranger in the supermarket before injuring himself. Psychiatrists found he was suffering from psychosis, and he has since begun treatment. The judge cited the seriousness of the attack and the danger posed, ordering him to serve half the sentence in custody and the remainder on licence.

MPs urged that Clacton voters should be fully informed before voting in the upcoming by-election triggered by Nigel Farage’s resignation. During Prime Minister’s Questions, Liberal Democrat Daisy Cooper and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy criticised Farage over an undeclared £5 million gift and accused him of using the by-election as a political stunt. Cooper called for delaying Farage’s resignation until the investigation concludes, while Ed Davey urged parties to avoid fuelling Farage’s campaign. Lammy framed Farage as attempting to distract from ongoing allegations, leaving voters to decide amid heightened scrutiny.

James Cleverly accuses Nigel Farage of attempting to evade a Parliamentary Standards investigation into an undeclared £5 million gift from donor Christopher Harborne, following Farage’s resignation as MP for Clacton and decision to recontest the seat. The probe was paused by his resignation but would resume if he returns to Parliament. Cleverly argues the revelations undermine Farage’s public image and highlight broader concerns over Reform UK’s funding, which includes significant donations from Harborne and additional undeclared support from George Cottrell. Farage denies wrongdoing and was contacted for comment.

A Clacton man was sentenced after admitting to inhaling nitrous oxide while driving a Vauxhall Corsa, possessing ketamine, and driving while disqualified and uninsured. Police identified him through CCTV and discovered nitrous oxide canisters, balloons, and ketamine in the vehicle. The court heard details of his difficult personal circumstances, including mental health issues and family instability. He received a 12‑month community order with rehabilitation days, fines, a victim surcharge, and a 29‑month driving ban, with the bench urging him to maintain contact with probation services.

Police in Tendring are increasing patrols and enforcement over concerns linking e-scooters and e-bikes to crime and antisocial behaviour. Chief Inspector Stuart Austin said officers are working with businesses and holiday parks, deploying live facial recognition in busy areas, and seizing illegally ridden e-scooters. Recent arrests were made in Clacton related to drug supply and vehicle theft, and residents are urged to secure belongings and continue sharing information to support crime‑prevention efforts.

Scott Johns was stopped in Kirby Cross while driving a BMW that had failed its MOT, leading police to conduct drug tests that detected cannabis and cocaine in his system. He admitted drug driving, cannabis possession and operating a vehicle in a dangerous condition. His lawyer said he had driven only to help a distressed friend and believed any cocaine use from a party the previous day would no longer be detectable. Johns received a 20‑month driving ban, 100 hours of unpaid work and financial penalties.

A Clacton woman, Madeline Jaques, denied three common assault charges and one count of threatening and abusive behaviour related to an incident at Tom Peppers bar in May 2026. The Crown Prosecution Service withdrew the assault charges, leaving only the behaviour allegation. Jaques, who appeared in court on crutches, was released on bail and is scheduled to appear at Colchester Magistrates’ Court in July 2028.

A three‑bedroom detached bungalow on Sherwood Drive in Clacton is listed for £400,000, offering single‑storey living, a spacious lounge and dining area, a bright conservatory, a fitted kitchen, and a modern shower room. The master bedroom has approved planning permission for an extension to add an en‑suite. Located close to the seafront and local amenities, the home provides a blend of comfort, flexibility and convenience, with enquiries directed to Lamb & Co.