Comedian Lee Hurst is reported to be considering running for the post
of Mayor of London in the next elections. The 40-year-old cockney has cut
back his television appearances (which have previously included shows such as
They Think it's All Over) in recent years to run his Backyard Comedy Club in
Bethnal Green.
His renewed interest in politics is caused by recent proposals to replace his
club and other buildings along the road with blocks of flats. Hurst has
said "It just made me want to fight to save my club and made me get involved
again. Years ago I used to be active politically but as people get older you get
diverted into other things and lose your passion."
But his policies extent further than his personal aims to save his
club. Hurst has strong public support in London for his views on issues
such as Public Transport, Congestion Charging, Crime and dumped cars.
Hursts local connections may work in his favour in the elections. "I'm
born and bred in Tower Hamlets, I've lived here all my life," he said. "All my
staff live locally and we have local suppliers so we keep money in Bethnal Green
and we draw thousands into the area."
If he confirms that he has decided to stand he will be running
against Ken Livingstone, Lib Dem candidate Simon Hughes, Labour's Nicky
Gavron and Tory challenger Steve Norris.
