A new left-wing alliance is fielding candidates in every ward in Waltham Forest at next week’s local election.

The Trade Union and Socialist Coalition (TUSC) has 33 candidates standing in all 20 wards on May 22.

Nancy Taffe, TUSC candidate in High Street ward, says members want the left to "stand as broadly as we can" at a time when society is fragmented and the main political parties are virtually indistinguishable.

She added: "The established politicians have failed us and are all united in implementing cuts.
"We are standing to challenge the lie that this country is skint, when in fact our economy is booming."

“We have never been richer and the economy is booming, but just for a tiny percentage of people.”

The party’s candidates include RMT Union members, Whipps Cross Hospital workers and Leytonstone Fire Brigades Union (FBU) branch manager, Tim Roedel. 

The coalition government insists cuts are necessary to tackle the budget deficit and secure the country’s economic future, while the Labour council says it is trying to preserve vital services with a significantly reduced budget.

A candidate named None of the Above, formally known as Adam Osen, changed his name by deed poll in order distinguish himself from mainstream politicians.

The independent is standing in Chingford Green and as his surname is listed as ‘Above’, he appears at the top of the ballot paper.

The 54-year-old is predicting a significant shift in the political landscape.

He said: "We're starting to live in a society where people can express their opinion and take control themselves.

"People are fed up of having no choice by just being given the option to vote Labour, Tory or Lib Dem.

“There is a real mix this time round because people know they're not happy and want something different."

He wants to improve parking, address waiting times at Whipps Cross Hospital accident and emergency department and raise standards in elderly care.

The Green Party is fielding 19 candidates while UKIP has 12.

There are also a handful of Liberal Party and independent candidates.