AND now we get down to the tricky ones…

In 2012, Labour had a handsome victory here in a ward that has a number of contrasts. Labour won by 267 votes (50%). But that look like a bit of a heady peak.
The councillor struggled to make an impact and has bowed out this year.

In 2014, Ukip took the seat by just 65 votes (35% of the vote). It looked like it could be an area of growth but a bit like their office, it looks like they have struggled to maintain their presence.

In 2015, despite a disappointing general election, Labour won in Staple Tye through John Strachan. John has been a busy councillor who has certainly made his presence felt (Just stop doing that bunny ears thing John). He won by 87 votes (37%).

You get the feeling that Labour are going to stretch the lead. They have a young gun in Stefan Mullard who is clearly full of enthusiasm. Whether he is th mean to deal with the myriad of challenges in his wars is another thing.

The Conservatives are represented by Michael Hardware, who alway seems to get the challenging wards. But he certainly sticks to the task and he has to be admired for that.

YH prediction: Lab hold.

Staple Tye

Michael HARDWARE The Conservative Party Candidate
Dan MASON UK Independence Party (UKIP)
Stefan MULLARD Labour Party