WE hear UKIP asking people to reject the old politics, to get rid of the Westminster class.

They portray themselves as an alternative, a protest against the establishment. I would ask people who believe this a question: did those UKIP politicians elected to the European Parliament give their expenses to charity or did they keep them for themselves?

Did the new ex-Tory UKIP MPs suddenly stop living in their expensive houses and reject their salaries and expenses?

When I see people like Neil and Christine Hamilton claiming now to be representing the working classes as UKIP politicians after lifetimes of supporting the wealthy and privileged it makes me shudder.

And what about Nigel Farage?

A wealthy upper class man who does not need his expenses but still takes every penny. I’m afraid that anyone who thinks that UKIP represent a new dawn for British politics will be sorely disappointed.

My concerns are for those who find themselves struggling despite working hard and trying to keep their families' heads above water, for all those who just want a life without having to worry if they can afford to switch the heating on or fearing the next bill that comes through the letterbox. Unlike Farage and the Hamiltons I’ve been there and have had moments when I thought it was only a matter of time before I lost my home.

In 2015 I do hope that people recognise those who are genuinely trying to represent their communities.

Cllr Stephen Burns Winsford Swanlow and Dene Ward