Strood Selection Changes

Looks like my punt on Strood selections has resulted in a payout.

As if by witchcraft the Conservatives have announced a change in line up in Strood and have reshuffled the deck, in a sign of mild panic that the area is slipping from the Conservatives grasp.

This blog predicated mid-week that Councillor Chitty would return to the bench in a sign that the Tories are worried by a weak line up against a Labour insurgence within the area.

Polling on the doorstep shows discontent in the Conservative areas of Strood North with ironically the airport issue causing damage. Coupled with the road fiascos, fuel cost and increases in Council Tax - we have a toxic mix of discontent within the Tory base.

Perhaps the Strood North Conservatives could actually update the Strood Conservative website. It's looking a bit dated.

With rumours the Liberals have pulled out of Strood North and the improvement in national polling; Strood North is very much winnable for Labour and with a sitting Councillor and favourable returns; it really is going to be very close indeed.

There is also anecdotal evidence this was conducted in a rush.

The Strood South publication dated only last week had five pictures of existing and new Strood South candidates and paid no reference to the change in line up.

And what does this mean for the community.

Labour in Strood South wish to thank the Conservatives for the selection - a vociferous and tenacious leafletter our Ken is not.

All eyes on Strood North! Its going to be a photo-finish.

To an outside observer it looks like there have been some games played once again in the Local Conservative Association.