Clacton by-election candidate pulls out after facing 'barrage of threats'

The candidate has pulled out of the by-election (Image: Rui Vieira/PA Wire)

A CANDIDATE in the upcoming Clacton by-election has stepped down from the race after facing a "barrage of threats".

Entrepreneur Abi Hookway announced her plans to stand last month, promising a focus on "practical solutions" and community-led politics.

It came after Reform UK leader Nigel Farage stepped down as Clacton MP on July 7, which has resulted in 34 candidates standing.

All the major parties, including the Conservatives, Labour and LibDems, have decided not to field a candidate in this election.

Abi Hookway standing down from Clacton by-election (Image: Supplied)

Hookway has since issued a statement, confirming she will not be actively standing citing threats and negativity towards her.

She said: "I really enjoyed meeting the people of Clacton and thinking through the issues – and how I can help.

"I'm going to continue with helping and I want the community to thrive but, I am not going to continue in this election. I had a barrage of threats beyond what I am comfortable with.

"Being in the public eye, I've had my fair share of negativity, but this was on a scale I was not prepared for and that's why I'm standing.

"I have learnt a lot, and I have a greater appreciation for politicians who live this day in, day out.

"This isn't the end, but this is not my time.”

Nigel Farage announced last month he would be standing down as Clacton MP, triggering a by-election (Image: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire)

The entrepreneur and property investor, previously said she was entering the race to "offer an alternative" to what she describes as an increasingly divisive political debate.

Hookway, who is not a career politician, said her background had shaped her decision to stand.

The Clacton by-election is expected to draw significant national attention, with the Essex constituency once again becoming one of the most closely watched political battlegrounds.

Clacton by-election ballot (Image: TDC)

With 34 names on the ballot, it becomes the most highly contested by-election in history.

Voters in Clacton will face a ballot paper that is nearly a metre long at the upcoming by-election.

The previous record for a House of Commons seat was 28 candidates during the Haltemprice and Howden by-election in 2008.

The full list of candidates standing in the Clacton by-election can be found here.