Clacton by-election

MAKE YOUR MARK Vote for Martyn O’Brien

More than four in ten people in Clacton did not vote at the last general election. This by-election will be decided by the people who take the time to turn up and make their choice.

41% did not vote in Clacton at the 2024 general election
34 candidates will appear on the ballot paper
20 mins could help change who represents Clacton

The result is decided by those who turn up.

It is understandable that many people have lost confidence in politics. Too many residents feel ignored, taken for granted or remembered only when an election is taking place.

But not voting does not reject the system. It simply allows somebody else to make the choice for you.

This election is your chance to choose an MP who will focus on Clacton, remain accessible and treat the job as a full-time public responsibility.

Why vote for Martyn?

I am not a career politician. I am a small business owner, a lifelong family carer and the founder of Mobility UK, where I help disabled people and families navigate difficult systems and obtain practical support.

1

Clacton comes first

My priority will be constituency work, local issues and helping residents. Clacton should not be treated as a platform for outside careers, media appearances or personal ambition.

2

Fully independent

I have no party headquarters telling me how to vote. I will judge proposals on whether they are right for Clacton and the country, not whether they suit a political party.

3

Accessible and accountable

I will hold regular surgeries, meet residents and local organisations, publish updates and provide clear ways for people to contact me when they need their MP.

This election is about who will do the work after the cameras leave.

With 34 candidates, the ballot paper will be crowded. Some candidates are standing to promote national messages, create publicity or perform a novelty act.

I am standing because Clacton deserves a serious, accessible and hard-working constituency MP.

My commitment to Clacton

  • Regular local surgeries and public meetings
  • Clear contact routes for residents who need help
  • Regular public updates on constituency work
  • Meetings with local businesses, charities and services
  • No party whip controlling my decisions
  • Clacton constituency work treated as the priority

Make sure you are ready to vote

Registration and voting applications have strict legal deadlines. Complete anything you need as soon as possible.

Deadline: 28 July 2026

Register to vote

You must be on the electoral register to vote. Register again if you have recently changed your name, address or nationality.

Register to vote
Deadline: 5pm, 29 July 2026

Apply for a postal vote

Vote from home if you may not be able to reach your polling station. Apply early to allow time for your ballot paper to arrive and be returned.

Apply for a postal vote
Deadline: 5pm, 5 August 2026

Apply for a proxy vote

A proxy vote allows somebody you trust to vote on your behalf if you cannot attend the polling station yourself.

Apply for a proxy vote
Deadline: 5pm, 5 August 2026

Get free voter photo ID

You need accepted photo ID to vote in person. If you do not have suitable ID, apply free of charge for a Voter Authority Certificate.

Apply for free voter ID
X

Thursday 13 August, 7am to 10pm

Your polling card will show where to vote. You do not need to take the polling card with you, but you will need accepted photo identification if voting in person.

Official election information

Contact Electoral Services

Tendring District Council Electoral Services

Town Hall, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE

Telephone: 01255 686575

Email: elections@tendringdc.gov.uk

Vote for a normal person.
Vote for Martyn.

On Thursday 13 August, look for Martyn OBrien, Independent on your ballot paper and place your X beside my name.

Election dates and application deadlines are based on the official timetable published by Tendring District Council .