Bob Spink left the Conservative Party because, apparently, he was on the verge of being kicked out.

After a week or so as an independent he secured a political home as the UK Independence Party's first, and one and only Member of Parliament.

Which begs a couple of very intriguing questions:Would the "to hell with the party" supporters of Bob the Man feel the same way if he had defected to the BNP?

And was Castle Point Tory Party caught napping by UKIP in what is undoubtedly a coup by default?

Yes to both in my opinion, in this true-blue-collar constituency.

Can we all now look forward to the fun and frolics of a unilateral declaration of independence for Canvey Island? Just what is the matter with Bob Spink's electorate? They ought to be screaming for a by-election.

John Haran
Broadway West
Leigh