A by-election battle has turned personal after a council hopeful hit back at claims made about where he lives.
Conservative candidate Luis Richard Alun James Gordon has criticised a Reform UK campaign leaflet which he says claimed he lives in Wellington.
The Conservatives have referred the matter to the Mid Devon returning officer, saying Luis has lived in Tiverton for 20 years and would be ineligible to stand if the Reform UK claim were true.
Luis said: “It is disappointing to see these false statements being circulated.
“I am a Tiverton resident, through and through. My focus remains on being a strong voice for Cranmore Ward. Voting take place on May 14.”
Goff Welchman, who is standing for Reform UK, said the address information was taken from the imprint on the Conservative candidate’s own campaign leaflet.
He said: “The address information of the Conservative candidate was taken from the imprint on his own campaign leaflet, which clearly states that he resides in the Wellington area.
“His leaflet is very open to criticism, which we are taking up with the returning officer.
“I would also add, that if the candidate is so involved with and knowledgeable about Cranmore Ward, why are his team canvassing in Lowman Ward?
“His credentials in supporting Cranmore cannot compare with mine, so he is clutching at straws, knowing that he is staring defeat in the face.”
A poll for Tiverton Town Council’s Cranmore Ward will be held on Thursday, May 14, between 7am and 10pm. One councillor will be elected.
The candidates are Luis Richard Alun James Gordon, Conservative; Claudette Harrower, Liberal Democrats; Ana Luisa Hendy, Local Independents for Tiverton; and Goff Welchman, Reform UK.
The polling station will be Sunningmead Community Centre, Lazenby Road.
