Grant StClair-Armstrong, the Reform UK candidate in North West Essex, has resigned from the race against Conservative candidate Kemi Badenoch.

StClair-Armstrong's resignation follows the surfacing of historic comments urging support for the far-right British National Party (BNP).

The controversial remarks were made in a 2010 blog post where the 71-year-old expressed frustration with the UK.

StClair-Armstrong admitted to having no excuses for his comments, stating he no longer holds those views and attributed them to a moment of frustration.

Despite his resignation, StClair-Armstrong will still appear on the ballot as an independent candidate.

This incident highlights the impact of past statements on political candidates and their campaigns.

Other candidates in North West Essex include Niko Omilana (Independent) and Smita Rajesh (Liberal Democrats).