It is not only quirky, but clever. Voters going to the ballot boxes in the Essex constituency of South Basildon and East Thurrock on May 6th will see a line on their ballot papers enabling them to vote for "None Of The Above".But this is not a new way of abstaining - it is actually the new name of the ex-boxer formerly known as Terry Marsh, pictured left, who has changed his name by deed poll to "None Of The Above X" to stand as a parliamentary candidate.
The former World Light Welterweight boxing Champion, now known as Mr X, said he made this unusual move to “legitimise the election in this constituency" and claimed he will not take the seat in Parliament if he wins at the ballot box.
Electoral law bans parties from using the name, but it does not ban individuals.
Local pundits believe the move could divert some crucial votes in the poll where boundary changes have now made it a close race for the seat with Labour seeking to protect a notional majority of 905 votes (2.14%) over the Conservatives.
