UMVA has learned that a surreal and unforgettable moment unfolded during the Makerfield by-election, as a Sky News journalist found himself in a hilarious and unexpected conversation with Count Binface, a comedian and candidate known for his outrageous antics.
As votes were being counted, Sky News' chief political correspondent, Jon Craig, was interrupted by his studio presenter, who insisted he chat with the man standing behind him - a figure clad in a giant trash can on his head, flashing peace signs. Craig reluctantly turned around, and what ensued was a two-minute interview that would leave viewers in stitches.
Count Binface, self-proclaimed 'intergalactic election crusader', declared his candidacy was driven by a series of seemingly absurd reasons: 'A) It was happening B) I was at a loose end C) Because I believe elected mayors should serve out their terms before they're eligible to stand for parliament'. Craig was taken aback, remarking, 'Ah, you made a sensible political point there' - a comment that drew a witty retort from Binface.
Binface's response was characteristically cheeky: 'Well no, you're supposed to be impartial mate, so let me carry on.' And carry on he did, outlining a series of outlandish policies, including rephrasing traffic lights on Liverpool Road, capping Wigan kebab prices at £2, and re-routing HS2 through rail executives' homes. Craig struggled to keep a straight face as Binface's proposals grew increasingly bizarre.
When asked about his expected vote tally, Binface quipped, 'Well, I'd be happy with one.' The conversation only got more absurd from there, with Binface pledging to build affordable housing and promising to relocate to Makerfield if he won. As their chat drew to a close, Binface congratulated Craig on a 'well-done' interview, leaving the journalist visibly amused.
The segment sparked widespread delight on social media, with users praising the 'brilliant' and 'pure Partridge' exchange. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham secured a landslide victory in the by-election, with Count Binface ultimately garnering a mere 95 votes - 0.21 per cent of the total.
