Conservatives give away Surrey council seat by failing to run a candidate

Commiserations to Cllr Simon Gimson, the Conservative councillor for the Shalford division on Surrey County Council, who will not be standing for re-election due to an error by Conservative agent which meant the nomination paper did not go in on time. The agent has resigned.

Cllr Gimson says:

 “I am sorry that due to an administrative error I will not be a candidate in the election on the 2nd of May.

“It has been a privilege to represent the Shalford division of Surrey County Council for the last two years. I have worked with local organisations and in particular the eight parish councils who all demonstrate the benefit of localism and deliver fantastic results for their communities.

‘I am proud of the achievements of local groups which I have supported with funds from my allocation. I will continue to support residents and provide advice if asked.”

Even Cllr Gimson's opponents concede that he has been a conscientious representative for the people of Shalford. Let us hope that despite this unpleasant shock his political career is not over. He was elected in a byelection two years ago - with a huge majority.

Who will win his seat? There are candidates from UKIP, Labour and the Lib Dems and surely UKIP must be well placed to gain their first seat in the county.