A SHOP manager is set to contest the Shrub End by-election as an independent candidate.

Mike Clark is hoping to take on the party giants at the September 7 poll, which was called after Lib Dem Karen Chaplin resigned last month.

The Co-op manager says he decided to put himself forward because he felt political parties "would not put Shrub End first".

He added: "It was definitely a jump to put myself forward as an independent.

"But when I looked into it, I actually saw it was pretty easy. I got my ten signatures and there I was.

"I've felt for some time politicians aren't putting the area first, which I suppose is understandable given they are attached to a party but I do feel local elections should be fought on local issues and that's what I want to do.

"I don't need to go and knock on doors, because I know the people and I know what's important here."

The 30-year-old former Alderman Blaxill pupil added although his ultimate aim is to top the poll, just being on the ballot paper is a victory.

He said: "I thought there would be some other independents actually because Shrub End is that sort of place but I'm the only one - hopefully that will actually help me."

Mr Clark is up against Lib Dem Sam McCarthy, Labour's Mike Dale, Ukip's Bruno Hickman, Victoria Weaver, of the Green Party and Conservative Vic Flores.