A candidate in the Makerfield by-election for the Reform party is facing criticism for allegedly misrepresenting his background. Reports indicate that the candidate, Robert Kenyon, actually grew up and attended primary school in Merseyside, contrary to the party’s claim that he was “born and bred” in the Makerfield constituency.

According to electoral roll records, Kenyon was registered to vote at his family home in Haydock, within the St Helens North constituency, between 2006 and 2014. Outgoing Makerfield MP Josh Simons, who recently announced his resignation to make way for Andy Burnham, expressed distrust towards Kenyon, accusing him of not being truthful about his roots.

Kenyon, a Wigan Council councillor, was absent from a recent council meeting, prompting further criticism from Simons, who described him as an unreliable individual. It has been revealed that Kenyon attended a primary school in Haydock, which is adjacent to the Makerfield constituency.

Campaign literature promoting Kenyon’s parliamentary bid stated that he was “born and bred in Makerfield,” where he operates a local plumbing business. However, a former neighbor contested this claim, asserting that Kenyon grew up in Haydock and suggesting that his portrayal as a Makerfield native is misleading.

In response, a spokesperson for Reform UK defended Kenyon, stating that he was born and educated in Makerfield, having lived in the area for the past 13 years and running a local business. The spokesperson also criticized Simons for attacking Kenyon’s local ties, highlighting the irony of the situation given Simons’ own background.

Kenyon has also faced backlash for past social media comments, including agreeing with an inappropriate remark about Carol Vorderman. While Vorderman demanded an apology, Kenyon admitted to making mistakes and acknowledged the need for improvement in his behavior.

When asked directly about issuing an apology, Kenyon reiterated that no offense was intended by his comments and attributed them to a misguided attempt at humor. He emphasized that his remarks were not reflective of his current attitude and expressed regret for any offense caused.

The ongoing controversy surrounding Kenyon’s background and past behavior has sparked debate within the Makerfield by-election campaign, with both supporters and critics weighing in on his candidacy.