Tory hate candidate faces sentencing

A Tory parliamentary candidate who orchestrated a hate campaign against his Liberal Democrat rivals will face sentencing at St Albans magistrates court today.

Ian Oakley, 31, of Ryeland Close, West Drayton, north-west London, pleaded guilty to five charges of criminal damage and two counts of harassment.

While candidate for Watford, Mr Oakley sent gay and lesbian pornography to Lib Dem rival Sal Brinton and sent letters to supporters of fellow Lib Dem Russell Willson saying he was a “child abuser”.

Mr Oakley quit as Watford candidate during the start of the trial.