The serial candidates standing against Farage in the Clacton by-election
The Clacton by-election features a record-breaking 34 candidates, including several serial candidates and satirical figures. Major parties are not contesting the seat against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, leading to a crowded ballot of independents and smaller parties.
Why it matters
It highlights the unique dynamics of British electoral law and the increasing trend of using by-elections as a platform for political satire and protest.
By Rob England and Jess Carr Published 16 minutes ago A record number of candidates are standing in next week's Clacton by-election, but some names on the ballot will be more familiar than others.
As the main parties are not standing against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, the 33 other candidates on the ballot are either from smaller political parties or are standing as independents.
Eight of these names have already appeared on multiple ballot papers elsewhere in the UK however, including Reclaim Party leader Laurence Fox and satirical candidates Count Binface and Howling Laud Hope.
BBC Verify has taken a look at the serial candidates who have decided to stand in Clacton, how they have fared in previous elections, and whether they have ever won enough votes to save their £500 parliamentary - or £10,000 London mayor - deposits.
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