Voting has closed in the Clacton by-election, where Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is anticipated to achieve a clear victory. Mr Farage is competing against a field of 33 other hopefuls, including 20 independent candidates and three from the Official Monster Raving Loony party, after other main parties opted not to stand.
Mr Farage, 62, sought re-election to his Clacton seat in early July following weeks of scrutiny regarding gifts he received and other aspects of his financial affairs. He framed the contest as an opportunity for local voters to express their disapproval of mainstream politics.
The parliamentary standards watchdog is currently investigating Mr Farage over allegations he failed to declare gifts and donations, including a £5 million gift from Christopher Harborne. This inquiry was paused when he resigned as an MP but is set to resume upon his re-election. If found to have breached declaration rules and suspended from the House of Commons, a second by-election could be triggered, which other main parties would then contest.
The result of the by-election is expected to be announced from around 6am on Friday.