Election 2017: Leyton and Wanstead’s Liberal Democrat candidate says ‘I’m the only person who will fight against a hard Brexit’

Ben Sims, the Lib Dem candidate for Leyton and Wanstead campaigning outside of Wanstead Underground station (Image: Archant)

Ben Sims, a 37-year-old IT business owner, is the centrist party’s nominee, and believes he can capitalise on Labour candidate John Cryer’s support for Leave in a heavily pro EU constituency.

“My biggest issue is fighting the Tories against a hard Brexit,” he told the Recorder.

“John Cryer is backing the Conservatives, there needs to be someone to stand up for the views of Leyton and Wanstead.”

Mr Cryer has represented the seat since 2010, and was reelected two years ago with a majority of 14,919, but Mr Sims believes his party can pull off a shock upset like in the Richmond Park by-election.

Ben Sims, the Lib Dem candidate for Leyton and Wanstead campaigning outside of Wanstead Underground station (Image: Archant)

“It’s between me and him,” Mr Sims declared.

“Brexit has changed everything, around 65 per cent of people in Leyton and Wanstead voted Remain and I’m confident I can get their support.

“I’ve been out knocking on doors and people are saying I will not vote for someone who supported Brexit.”

Mr Sims is a political novice, “I’ve never stood for election before”, and believes this could help him in current climate.

He joined the Liberal Democrats after their 2015 general election disaster, and began campaigning regularly during the EU referendum.

When there was the chance to stand for the party in Leyton and Wanstead he jumped at the chance.

“I’m really passionate about our NHS,” he explained.

“We need to give it more money, and in particular integrate it with our social care system.”

He also said he wants to reverse the Conservative’s cuts to schools in Redbridge.

Mr Sims currently lives in Bow, but promised to move to the constituency if he is victorious on June 8.