Why should it be a surprise? What was said to make the visit so painful?
# | Email | Homepage | 04.05.05 - 10:04 am | #

These are rather snide comments. Can't a prospective candidate go anywhere without being ridiculed? At least they saw her and can have a better picture in who to choose. It is democracy after all.
Clive | Email | Homepage | 04.05.05 - 12:26 pm | #

her visit was apparently a surprise because for some reason it had not been announced in advance.
Not sure what "painful" refers to (not a word I used) and there is certainly no ridicule here - just fact. That's what comes of trying to explain the background to a visit - some people just love to misinterpret or assume an ulterior motive. The fact I was actually trying to get over was that the members of the club have traditionally avoided politics and religion and some felt uncomfortable - that is probably with either of us being there.
Sandra Gidley | Email | Homepage | 04.05.05 - 11:57 pm | #

Ok, so painful is not the word to use then. I can't see how anyone can stay out of politics as it involves anyone, even the group of elderly people. As pensions is such a big issue for example, I'm sure it is a subject for them at the table from time to time. I'm not misinterpreting anything. They didn't have to invite your opponent in if they weren't interested.
Clive | Email | Homepage | 04.08.05 - 10:57 am | #

Clive - to clarify - as I understand it an officer of the group OKd Caroline's visit but it was not announced beforehand (as is usual) so some members were not keen. There was then a suggestion that I should be invited along (to redress balance) and this was put to vote but did not meet with unanimous approval.
I happen to agree with your point about people not being able to stay out of politics but am also acutely aware that some people do not like party politics being mixed with what they might regard as as a socail occasion.
Sensitivity to these matters is very useful on occasion.
Sandra Gidley | Email | Homepage | 04.09.05 - 11:37 pm | #

Well done,you have used Mrs Nokes'real name,Caroline. I hope that for the rest of the campaign you and your fans will resist contemptible put-downs such as those used for Paul Raynes,described as 'William Hague's speechwriter'.Paul was an excellent candidate,struggling to campaign with the knowledge that his infant son was not well.
Romsey Constituent | Email | Homepage | 04.10.05 - 7:22 pm | #

Also, he was mocked for taking driving lessons too as well as being "parachuted" into Romsey when he was a Hampshire person.
Clive | Email | Homepage | 04.10.05 - 7:26 pm | #

Clive must be the most well balanced person in Romsey - a chip on both shoulders!
Jess | Email | Homepage | 04.11.05 - 7:11 am | #

Actually, I'm quite a nice guy once you get to know me!
Clive | Email | Homepage | 04.11.05 - 9:50 am | #