'Today Craig Chapman and Brian Buxton set up their election table in the Shopping Precinct in Stretton, Burton upon Trent.

They are both candidates for the local council, standing, of course, under the Popular Alliance banner.

The past fortnight has been spent delivering leaflets to every house in Stretton, and today was the follow-up to explain to people what Popular Alliance was about, and what it stood for, to see how they felt about the political situation generally and to listen carefully to their views.

The day went exceedingly well, with some very constructive and positive conversations with voters, which reinforce the views and interest from householders 'on the doorstep'.

Due to Staffordshire County Council proposing to close our residential homes and day-care centres, feelings are running very high against Labour councillors, and if one were to make a guess, it looks as though they may be in for a good hiding.

We hope this augers well for us!'