Town unimpressed by northern stereotypes as Tories target marginals
MEN FROM the Cumbrian town of Workington seemed nonplussed after a Conservative think-tank identified them as a key target for the party in the upcoming election.
Right-of-centre Onward said the Conservatives would have to target the average “middle England” voter, otherwise known as “Workington man”, in order to win a majority in the December 12 poll.
According to the group, Workington man is an older, white, non-graduate man from a northern town like Workington or Halifax with an interest in Rugby League and a tendency to vote Labour.
Allan Mitchell, 53, a civil servant from Workington, told the PA news agency that people were “offended by the Conservatives’ northern stereotyping”, adding: “This may backfire.”
“People expect a campaign, but they don’t like being patronised,” he said.
“I’d expect all the parties to target voters in some way, and with Workington being a fairly marginal seat I can understand the Conservatives looking for any angle to gain more votes.
“The idea that we’re all simple northerners without the university degrees they seem to think are standard, and all attend rugby league matches at the weekend, is causing widespread offence.”
Christopher Clarkin, 51, from neighbouring Cockermouth, said he was “excited” at the prospect of politicians focusing on the area during the election. He said: “(I am) excited. For too long we’ve been neglected in politics as Labour has had the view of Workington being a safe seat.”