Subdued last Campaign Saturday in Wanstead

Wanstead might have expected the High Street to be a-buzz with last-minute feverish campaigning on the last Saturday morning before polling day. After all, it seems there’s plenty to play for – 6,000 is a respectable majority but not an unassailable one, and though the Conservatives have been very active campaigners, some are still tipping the Lib Dems to cause an upset here.

But it was a subdued atmosphere which greeted shoppers. There were token campaign tables from Labour and Tory groups, though not, it appeared, the candidates. And the other parties – Lib Dems, UKIP, Greens, BNP and Christian – were not in attendance.

Comments today on Twitter and Facebook about the contest include:

@mapsadaisical Leyton and Wanstead? Labour probably favourites, but I reckon both Lib Dems and Tories think they have an outside chance.
@markb999 Tories and Labour on Wanstead High Street this morning. No Lib-Dems. However, they have started sending me letters. v.odd.


@sajarina Well, still had no response to my question about abortion rights from any Leyton & Wanstead candidates except the Labour one (pro-choice)

Jenna Hedges The Leyton and Wanstead Lib Dem candidates were not present at the prospective candidates meeting/hustings with the public today and have apparently pulled out of all the Questions debates in the area. Very strange and feel compelled to find out why!

Dave Buba Iain Duncan Smith in Waitrose South Woodford

Horsfall and Wright to leave Wanstead

Exclusive: Trendy gift shop Horsfall and Wright is moving out of Wanstead, Wansteadium understands. It is planning to relocate in bigger premises in a busier High Street, though it is not yet clear where that will be. The move is expected within the month.

The shop, which came to Wanstead High Street three years ago, has been opening less frequently lately as preparations are made for its move.

Last year its minimalist chic earned it a nomination in the Wanstead Society’s best shop front competition, when it was commended for a “well thought-out design” and for being a “smart injection into less-favoured end of the High Street”.

The news will come as a blow to shoppers as well as other retailers, and comes just a few weeks after it was revealed that delicatessen The Olive Branch had been put up for sale. Hardened Horsfall and Wright fans will still be able to buy online.


UPDATE: Tweet from Mark Bentley: Andrews Builders Merchants to close in Wanstead. Too many people coming in for just a washer, it would seem. Sad though, been there forever.

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