The perils of a winter election have become only too apparent to Dan Wilkinson, the Labour party candidate for Maidstone and the Weald.

Mr Wilkinson was out canvassing with colleagues at Bambridge Court in Maidstone on Monday night when he tripped over and broke his arm.

He said: "It was dark and I just stumbled over some steps. I wish I could say it was something more heroic.

"It is difficult canvassing in the dark in these winter evenings and I'm sure I will not be the only person across the country who has suffered.

"Fortunately, I had supporters with me and they were able to run me to A&E."

At least it gave Mr Wilkinson some first-hand experience of the NHS.

He said: "The staff were great and remained very cheerful despite being obviously under a lot of pressure.

"A&E seemed extremely busy to me for what was after all only a Monday, but I was told that was not unusual.

"Apparently quite a few people have accidents over the weekend and hang on to see their GP on Monday, only to be sent straight to A&E."

Mr Wilkinson had to wait three hours to be seen.

He is now waiting to hear whether he will need an operation. Meanwhile he is out canvassing again tonight, with his arm in a sling.

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