Yet another unofficial public opinion poll conducted by Stoke’s The Sentinel newspaper has shown that BNP councillor Alby Walker is head and shoulders more popular than any other party’s candidate to lead Stoke Council.

In an attempt to guess the outcome of the election of a new leader for Stoke-on-Trent City Council which is due in a few months’ time, The Sentinel put up an online poll to determine the most popular choice. Mr Walker has jumped into the lead with over 81 percent of the vote — way ahead of his nearest challenger, who polled 15 percent.

Following a referendum in October last year, the council will elect a mayor from within its ranks on June 5. An earlier poll by The Sentinel amongst councillors revealed that Mr Walker was also a favourite amongst the council members.

He is, however, taking nothing for granted, and is preparing his manifesto for the contest. “My aims include tearing up the controversial Shelton mosque agreement and reversing the council’s policy of shutting residential care homes,” Mr Walker said.

“I do intend to stand as a candidate for the post of council leader, but I have already been approached by several councillors from another group with a view to forming a coalition with the BNP group. It may be better for the BNP group to get some of what we want rather than nothing.”

The online poll can be found here.