...says one standing for its NEC

Comedian Crispin Flintoff, who runs the nationwide Stand Up For Labour fundraisers, has won a place on the ballot to join the party's National Executive Committee.

Running against 12 other candidates – including former London mayor Ken Livingstone – Flintoff says he wants more comedy and music events to engage with young voters.

'I am bemused that the central Labour Party has not been able to support what I am doing – nor has it seen fit to put on similar events of its own,' he said.

‘Morale-boosting events with celebrity speakers, musicians and comedians that are affordable to more people have not been considered by the central Labour Party. I know that such events would generate excitement among members, supporters and voters.

‘We need to inspire younger supporters and bring back old members who became disaffected. We need a strong grassroots with campaigning zeal that will not just win one election but will sustain this through elections and campaigns long afterwards.’

Flintoff’s bid to join Labour’s ruling executive has been backed by former leader Neil Kinnock, one of several party grandees who have appeared alongside comics at the fundraising events.

‘By getting top class, nationally renowned stand up comedians and other entertainers to publicly declare their support and to perform at fundraisers and other Labour Movement events, he mobilises talent and members creatively and productively,’ Lord Kinnock said.

Party members have until August 18 to vote, with results announced two days later.

Flintoff, who has previously stood for councillor in Hounslow, West London, founded Stand Up For Labour in 2012, and the next event - the 102nd – is not until September 21, the first night of the Labour Conference in Manchester. The line-up will include Barbara Nice, Gráinne Maguire and Patrick Monahan.

Published: 4 Aug 2014