Reform’s candidate in the Makerfield by-election is facing criticism for misleading claims about his upbringing, as it was revealed that he was raised and attended primary school in Merseyside rather than the constituency where he is running.
Robert Kenyon, the candidate, was challenged by a former neighbor who disclosed that Kenyon lived in the village of Haydock in the St Helens North constituency. Electoral records show that Kenyon was a registered voter at his family home on the Grange Valley estate in Haydock from 2006 to 2014.
The outgoing Makerfield MP, Josh Simons, accused Kenyon of dishonesty, stating that Kenyon was not truthful about his background. Simons criticized Kenyon for his absence at a recent council meeting, highlighting what he called Kenyon’s lack of commitment.
It has been reported that Kenyon attended English Martyrs Catholic Primary School in Haydock, which is located within the St Helens constituency neighboring Makerfield.
Campaign materials promoting Kenyon’s parliamentary candidacy stated that he was “born and bred in Makerfield” and identified as a local plumber. However, a former neighbor disputed this claim, asserting that Kenyon grew up in Haydock, not Makerfield.
A spokesperson for Reform UK defended Kenyon, stating that he was born and educated in Makerfield and has been a resident for the past 13 years while operating his business, Makerfield Heating.
Kenyon has faced backlash for past social media comments, including inappropriate remarks about Carol Vorderman. When confronted about these comments, Kenyon admitted to his mistakes and clarified that he did not intend to cause offense.
Despite the controversy, Kenyon declined to offer a direct apology to Vorderman, emphasizing that the comments were meant as a joke and should not be taken seriously.
In response to the criticism, Kenyon defended his actions, stating that his comments were not directed at anyone specific and were intended as humor, although he acknowledged that they were inappropriate.
Overall, Kenyon’s candidacy has been marred by allegations of misrepresentation and controversial statements, leading to increased scrutiny and debate within the local community.