The Clacton constituency by-election, scheduled for August 13, has set a modern record with 34 candidates confirmed to stand. This figure is thought to be the highest number of candidates to contest a by-election in recent history, according to Tendring District Council.
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, on July 7. Farage, who is standing again in Clacton, resigned his seat amid increased scrutiny over his finances and a parliamentary investigation.
The candidate list features 20 independents, several joke candidates, including three from the Monster Raving Loony party. Notably, none of the major Westminster parties are fielding candidates in this election.
The previous record for the number of candidates in a by-election was 26, set at the Haltemprice and Howden by-election in July 2008. That election was also contested without the participation of the main Westminster parties, following the resignation of Conservative MP Sir David Davis.