By Kevin Layzell-Sunday February 17 saw the East London BNP branch hold another successful monthly meeting in their new venue. They lost the use of their previous, very popular, venue which they had used over the last couple of years, when the Elm Park Hotel closed down to be converted into a supermarket.

As usual the meeting was opened by East London party stalwart and organiser, Paul Sturdy.

This was followed by a speech by the stoic London organiser Steve Squire, who then passed the floor over to East London YBNP organiser Kevin Layzell.

Kevin (pictured) gave his maiden speech at the meeting, explaining how he first approached the Party last year, asking to get involved, having previously met BNP activists in Romford market, back in December 2010.

Kevin went on to explain that he had always been interested in politics - and is studying politics at college - and after looking round other political parties he decided that only the British National Party ticked all the boxes for him.

Kevin's speech was highly successful and was greeted with generous applause and support from those in attendance. Also on the agenda was the matter of a by-election that has been called in the Gooshays ward in Harold Hill, Havering after the local Tory Councillor sadly passed away.

Two candidates had shown an interest in standing so it was put to the vote.

Havering organiser, Mick Braun was selected by a majority vote. Mick has very good chance of being elected in Harold Hill due to the work he and Dagenham organiser, Bob Taylor have been doing in the ward since Christmas.