There are eight people contesting the Clacton seat in Westminster at next month’s by-election.

The deadline for nominations was 4pm today and the returning officer confirmed the candidates who would be fighting for the post.

Those vying for votes are:

• Douglas Carswell (UKIP)

• Andy Graham (Liberal Democrats)

• Alan “Howling Laud” Hope (Monster Raving Loony Party)

• Charlotte Rose (Independent)

• Bruce Sizer (Independent)

• Chris Southall (Green)

• Giles Watling (Conservative)

• Tim Young (Labour)

Another candidate, John Black for the Scottish Jacobite Party, had his nomination rejected by the returning officer as invalid.

The by-election was triggered by the surprise defection of sitting MP Douglas Carswell to UKIP. The former Conservative MP resigned his seat at the same time to force an election.

A number of high profile politicians have already visited the constituency, which includes Frinton and Jaywick, as part of the battle for votes.

Today William Hague, former Conservative Party leader and current Leader of the House of Commons, joined the Tory candidate Giles Watling on the campaign trail.