by political editor Paul Francis

The English Democrats have joined the contest to become Kent's first elected police commissioner, bringing the number of potential candidates for the £85,000 role to nine.

The party has selected health manager Steve Uncles, from Dartford, as its candidate for the election that takes place in November.

Mr Uncles, who has lived in Kent for most of his life, has twice stood for election in the European elections and also contested the 2009 county council election.

He has worked as an IT and facilities manager in the NHS and in schools and is married with two children.

He said that if elected, his key priorities would include making Kent a "drug-free zone" and directing the force not to charge people who defended their own home against burglars.

"Kent Police will be directed to give these individuals the benefit of the doubt unless there is evidence their actions on defence of their property or family members were excessive," the party's manifesto states.

On the issue of privatisation of policing, he said there should be a common-sense approach.

"I have been involved in a lot of private sector management in the public sector. Some privatisation works, some doesn't - there are some things the private sector does better."

He also believes Kent Police should be funded to the same level as police in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

Prospective candidates in the election to become Kent's first elected police commissioner, who will replace the appointed police authority, are:

• Craig Mackinlay, Conservative

• Harriet Yeo, Labour

• Ann Barnes, Independent

• Ken Little, Independent

• Dai Liyanage, Independent

• Fergus Wilson, Independent

• Fran Croucher, Independent

• Steve Uncles, English Democrats

• Ian Driver, Independent

• What do you think of the new role of Kent police commissioner? Join the debate by leaving a comment below.