Hainault By-Election: One Vote Short - A Warning Shot for Labour

On Thursday 1st May, voters in Hainault took part in a by-election that ended in one of the closest results in Redbridge Council history. What should have been a quiet contest in a Labour stronghold instead made national headlines, featuring on the BBC’s election night coverage.

Independent candidate Glen Haywood, standing with the support of the Epping Forest Independent Group (EFIG), fell short by a single vote. Labour held the seat with 835 votes. Glen received 834.

It was a stunning performance for a candidate without party machinery, big budgets or national backing. But Glen had something far more powerful – deep community ties and a message that resonated.

A 23-year resident of Hainault, Glen had served as a school governor, chaired the local police Safer Neighbourhood panel, and fought to protect green spaces from overdevelopment. During lockdown, he brought joy to families by dressing up as Father Christmas and driving through the ward.

Launching his campaign, Glen said, “I had offers to stand for two different parties, but I decided to back myself. I’m not here to split the vote. I’m here to win it – for Hainault.”

He added, “I won’t be answerable to party whips or remote headquarters. My focus will be solely on residents – their safety, their environment, their community.”

Backed by Cllrs Lisa Morgan and Tom Bromwich from EFIG, Glen’s campaign was deeply local and rooted in listening. The team knocked on doors, spoke to residents and addressed the real issues: fly tipping, crime, antisocial behaviour and years of political neglect.

One resident later said, “I didn’t think he stood a chance, but I voted for him anyway – he was the best option for us.” Others commented on how hard it had been to spread the word beyond social media, especially to older voters. “Without a big party machine, it was always going to be tough. But Glen still nearly pulled it off.”

The result sent shockwaves across the borough. Labour’s vote share collapsed to just 28.8% – its worst ever in the ward. The Conservatives, once dominant in parts of Redbridge, crashed into fourth place with only 14%, a fall of nearly 30 points. Reform UK, tipped by some to win, were left in a distant third behind Glen despite the resources they poured into the race.

Despite the narrow loss, Glen’s campaign won widespread praise. One supporter wrote, “Outstanding result despite not winning.” Another added, “You are our David – a true representative of the people.”

Even Ilford North MP and Health Secretary Wes Streeting acknowledged Glen’s strong showing.

But beyond the numbers, it was the community reaction that told the real story. Many were left gutted by the final count. “One vote sounds fishy to me,” said one. Others reflected on low turnout – just 27% – and called for a recount. “It’s heartbreaking to see people moan about the system but not turn up to vote,” one resident posted. “Labour’s gain is Hainault’s loss.”

Still, the message was clear: voters were ready for change. Glen’s honesty, local knowledge and track record of community service had struck a chord. “You should be so proud,” said one supporter. “You did amazing. Next time will be your time.”

While Glen missed out by a single vote, his campaign gave residents something they hadn’t had in years – a sense that someone was truly fighting for them.

In Hainault, this was more than just a by-election. It was a rallying cry for independent, local leadership. A reminder that party labels are no substitute for genuine commitment. And proof that even in the face of powerful party machines, one person, one message, and one community can come within touching distance of turning the tide.

Next time, one more vote might be all it takes.