Samantha Day (Independent)

Sam has entered the race to become London Mayor as part of an Internet competition.

The 18-year-old, of Felstead Road, Orpington, is studying for her A-levels at St Olave’s and St Saviour’s Grammar School.

She said her youth put her in touch with a lot of young Londoners who are not interested in the established political parties.

Top of her agenda is improving cycle lanes and bicycle storage across the capital as well as tackling violent crime.

She said: “I’m trying to improve cycling in London; it’s absolutely diabolical. People have failed before because they have no experience of cycling in London. I will listen to people’s views.

“There needs to be many more places for storing bikes. We should work with London companies to ensure people are encouraged to ride their bikes or take public transport.”

Sam is opposed to any expansion of the congestion charge.

On tackling crime, she said: “People under 25 could talk to teenagers in school about the dangers of carrying weapons.”

She seems unphased by her high-profile opponents.

“People are looking for

someone they can relate to,” Sam said. “I’m much more approachable than Boris or Ken.

“I hope people don’t see my age as a problem – I have a better connection with young people in London.”

Sam’s family is supporting her bid.

She plans to study English or politics at university next year unless elected into public office.

londonelectsyou.co.uk

John Flunder (Senior Citizens Party)

John Flunder has long been protesting against the Olympic levy. Back in January 2007, he threatened to go to prison rather than pay the part of his council tax that would go to the event.

More than a year on and he is standing in the London Mayoral elections on that principle – to get rid of the London-only levy.

The 78-year-old, of Oaklands Road, Bexleyheath, said: “Londoners will have to pick up any losses the Olympics makes.

“Only one has ever shown any profit. The Montreal 1974 Olympics has only just been paid off.

“A lot of people, particularly the younger generation, think they don’t have to worry about it, but when they are married and grown up it may still affect them. There is no way that can be fair.”

He insists he is not against the Olympics, but the way the funding has been dealt with.

He added: “The games will benefit the whole of the UK.

“A lot of the Olympic equipment will be dismantled and will go to other cities.”

John is not just taking up the Olympic mantle; he is also standing up for his contemporaries by standing for election.

He said: “This is not personal ambition. Some of us that haven’t got long to go should push back – go out with a fight not a whimper.”

seniorcitizensparty.org.uk