WILLIAM Hague was the latest top Tory to hit the election campaign trail in Castle Point today.

The former Conservative leader opened new buildings at the King John School and the Deanes School, both in Thundersley, and outlined the Conservative’s policy on green belt on Canvey.

Mr Hague, who is First Secretary of State and Leader of the House of Commons, followed a well-worn path of cabinet members trying to help Conservative candidate for Castle Point Rebecca Harris get re-elected in the face of stiff competition.

He said: “I’ve seen in Castle Point a great deal of support for the Conservative Party.

“It’s true that a lot of people voted for Ukip in the local and European elections, but we have to explain to them that this is a general election and we are deciding whether David Cameron or Ed Miliband becomes Prime Minister.

“Voting for Ukip is not the way to go.”

  • For a full report and photographs of Mr Hague’s visit, reaction from other parties – and the public – see tomorrow’s Echo.