Conservative councillor and candidate for New Addington South, Lara Fish, has criticised Reform UK after it emerged that one of their candidates is standing in the ward while also seeking election as a county councillor in Essex - over 90 minutes away.
The revelation has sparked anger among local residents and raised serious questions about whether Reform’s candidates have any intention to properly represent to New Addington.
The other Reform candidate for New Addington South does not even live in the area, instead residing in South Norwood - a journey that can take over 30 minutes in rush hour.
But the second candidate goes even further.
He is standing in New Addington South while also pursuing election in Essex - a completely different part of the country, with entirely separate responsibilities.
Councillor Lara Fish said:
“I’m honestly angry about this. New Addington isn’t a fallback option. It’s not somewhere you stick your name on a ballot paper while trying your luck somewhere else.
People here deserve councillors who are part of this community - not someone who thinks he can represent New Addington one minute and Essex the next.
It shows a complete lack of respect.”
Lara Fish, who has lived in New Addington for 20 years, has been a long-standing part of the local community - supporting the Royal British Legion, helping lead the Poppy Appeal, and playing an active role in local events including the New Addington Carnival and annual Christmas activities.
She added:
“I live here. I know this community. I’ve spent years working with local people and supporting the events and organisations that make New Addington what it is.
Tony Pearson has spent decades living and working in New Addington, supporting local businesses on Central Parade and getting involved in community life year after year.
That’s what being a councillor should be about - being present, being accountable, and actually caring about the place you represent.
If you want proper local councillors, vote for me and Tony Pearson on 7th May. If you want outsiders treating New Addington as a box to tick, you’ve got another option.”
