Basingstoke Reform councillor joins Nigel Farage in Clacton

Cllr Steve Trumm, who represents South Ham, was asked to step in to canvass for what he called "the future Prime Minister, we hope".

Cllr Trumm said he saw Mr Farage in person later that evening and was struck by the protection surrounding him, despite being at an event largely attended by supporters.

"The thing I did notice is that he had to turn up with security – even at a do which is mainly attended by Reform voters – and I think the fact he had to do this just shows there is something wrong with this country," he said. "Can you imagine what that's like? 24-hour security? He can't even go into a chip shop."

People attend a Clacton event (Image: Cllr Steve Trumm)

Despite the heavy security, Cllr Trumm said Mr Farage appeared relaxed: "He was looking well, on form, he didn't look tired considering how busy he has been."

Cllr Trumm linked the need for such protection to a wider culture of political hostility, pointing to attacks on Mr Farage during previous campaigns.

"He has faced people throwing milkshakes, bricks and stones at him and I just think – Anne Widdecombe, Southend [David Amess], Jo Cox.

Scenery on the campaign trail (Image: Cllr Steve Trumm)

"No one with an ounce of decency would celebrate the death of someone. We have got to do better in Basingstoke," he said.

He argued that healthy disagreement should never spill over into intimidation or violence. "You can disagree with me, and I will listen, put forward a contrary position, and we can reach a conclusion. We might not agree, but be respectful," he said.

Turning to the wider campaign, Cllr Trumm defended Mr Farage's decision to trigger the by-election, which came after the Reform UK leader resigned as Clacton's MP amid scrutiny over his financial dealings.

Cllr Steve Trumm (Image: Newsquest)

"I understand why he did it. I think the other parties should have the courage to stand in the election; it's an act of cowardice to not," he said. "I think, in a democracy, all politicians should stand – if no one's out canvassing, then you don't hear the people – it just seems really strange."

He said the reception had been positive. "There was a flipping big crowd."

Cllr Trumm said politicians should be judged on their actions rather than their party. "I would much rather do stuff and be judged on that. Don't judge your politician by the flipping colour of their rosette; judge them by what they do.

"We have to be better than this crazy division."