Kamran crosses borders for support

A poster for Tory hopeful Kamran Ghafoor has local people scratching their heads.

The eye-catching sign for the Oldham West and Royton candidate is next to Manchester Cabins at Hollinwood, which is now officially in Failsworth East council ward, but part of the Ashton constituency.

And Ashton Labour MP David Heyes who is fighting to retain his seat on May 6 said: “A lot of people have mentioned it to me and have been confused by it.

“It’s certainly not desirable to have it there. My view is that it’s not particularly damaging to me, it’s more damaging to him.

“Doesn’t he know where he is seeking to represent? It’s confusing for his voters.”

But the Tory candidate said: “I believe Mr Heyes is insulting the electorate’s intelligence.

“I’ve put my banners in places where my electorate can see them clearly.

“It may be in Hollinwood, but it is right on the border and faces the Oldham West constituency. People drive down Oldham Road to Manchester to work and it’s right in front of them.”

Signs and banners put up for election campaigns are exempt from planning permission, and are legal provided they are removed by 14 days after the election.

Catch up the with candidates at www.oldham-chronicle.co.uk/news-features/elections/