Will it make much difference, because no matter what the outcome, the end results will not change. We will still have political party's arguing about what is right and what is wrong, then do very little about it.

I feel more sorry for an 'independent' candidate who as lost their deposit, and whose heart and thoughts of other less mortals was more likely in the right place.

The other indicator in my area is the increase of 'Independents' fighting for a belief or cause (bit like WTM perhaps?) who haven't very much chance, because of the major party's tactics, not only among themselves, but to others as well

I believe that there ought to come a time in every man and womans life when they should stand up and be counted for what they believe in. If for no other reason than their own self worth.

I'm not for one moment suggesting that everyone do as I did. Many people have been dissatisfied enough with something to say 'someone ought to do something about XXX'. Well I decided that I would try to be that someone. I didn't get very far. Truthfully I didnt expect to get very far either. But I did give it my very best shot, and learned some valuable things in the process. I can also say that I may just try again next time. It's a david Vs goliath contest, and the smart money is always on goliath. But every very rare now and again david lands a lucky shot. I'm watching how things go at the moment, but if I do decide to stand again, I will announce it here (FE willing, as there isnt supposed to be partisan politics in this forum)

I also now have a far greater empathy with other independant candidates, whatever their political leanings.

As for losing the deposits, well for me it was £500. Not a descision I took lightly, as it was money earmarked for a new boiler, and we had to put up with emptying a bucket under the old boiler for 2 years after the election until I finally had the money for a new one.

One thing I do feel safe in predicting is that the next few years will see rising numbers of dissatisfaction leading to people wanting to change things. I can only hope that this is by the ballot box rather than other, more unacceptable methods.

WTM