Mr Blobby, the Liz Truss lettuce, Boaty McBoatface … the Clacton hopeful is part of a rich tradition – and a reminder that it’s laughter that defines us, not hate, says co-director of Round Our Way, Sofie Jenkinson

As Count Binface prepares to take on Nigel Farage in the Clacton by-election, Independent readers share their verdict on the man behind the bin – and whether he could actually…

Nachdem der Chef von Reform UK eine vorgezogene Wahl in Clacton-on-Sea erzwungen hat, wird sein einziger Rivale voraussichtlich ein Spasskandidat sein, der Farages Kalkül…