Hackney Council Hoxton East and Shoreditch candidates

Three Labour councillors represented Hoxton East and Shoreditch until last month, when Cllr Steve Race vacated his seat.

Race has been chosen to stand in Exeter at the next general election, which is expected to take place before the end of the year.

All four major parties are now vying to take the seat at the upcoming by-election on May 2, and to join Cllr Kam Adams and Cllr Anya Sizer in representing the ward on Hackney Council.

Here are the candidates in the order they appear on the ballot paper:

Samuel Iheanyi Adele – Conservative Party

We contacted the Hackney Conservative Party for more information about their candidate, and have not received a response.

Liam Davis – Green Party

Liam Davis, Green Party (Image: Hackney Green Party)

Liam describes himself as a “dedicated Hackney resident for many years”, and has a Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences.

He has spent the last four years working at start ups in the technology sector, and also works at a café in the borough.

He said: “I understand the many challenges facing residents, businesses, and organisations within Hackney, particularly in Hoxton and Shoreditch.

“My commitment is to serve as an independent voice, free from dictated opinions or actions, holding the current Labour administration accountable and advocating for the vital changes our ward requires.”

If elected, Liam said his key priorities would be to – champion sustainable housing, support vulnerable people, foster community, empower young people and enhance green spaces.

Becket McGrath – Liberal Democrats

Becket McGrath, Liberal Democrats (Image: Becket McGrath)

Becket has lived in Hackney for almost 18 years, and his daughter was born in the borough.

The 53-year-old describes himself as a “committed European”, and joined the Liberal Democrats after the 2016 EU referendum.

He is an active member of the Remain campaign, and has promised to provide a voice for “liberal principles” on the council.

Becket works as a solicitor, and continues to advise on EU and UK law.

He added: “It is important that Hackney voters who want to vote for our distinctive vision are able to do so.”

Faruk Tinaz – Labour Party

Faruk Tinaz, Labour Party (Image: London Labour)

Faruk grew up in Hoxton in a family working in market trading and the textile industry. He is married with two daughters and works as a lawyer.

He says he is committed to working with police and local organisations to improve community safety, and collaborating with residents and businesses to ensure the night-time economy works for everyone.

Faruk said: “With hundreds of new homes for local people, clean streets, award-winning parks and leadership on fair pay, in Hackney we’ve shown what’s possible with Labour in power.

“But after 14 years of failed Tory Government, the country is crying out for change. I’d urge people in Hackney and right across the country to send a message to the government on 2 May.

“Only Labour will break down barriers to opportunity and get Britain building again.”

Get ready to vote

• Make sure you bring valid photo ID to the polling station when you cast your vote.