A teacher and community campaigner has been chosen to represent the Green Party in the Kemp Town by-election.

Ricky Perrin, who has lived in Brighton for most of his life, is hoping to gain the seat on Brighton and Hove City Council after Bharti Gajjar resigned.

The 45-year-old father is a disability sports teacher.

The Argus: Ricky Perrin was born in BrightonRicky Perrin was born in Brighton (Image: Brighton and Hove Greens)

Ricky, who has lived in east Brighton for the past eight years, said: “I have been involved with disability sports for years and have been campaigning to get better leisure centre facilities here in Brighton, with our public services, charity and community services being hit hard by cuts.”

The by-election was triggered following the departure of Ms Ghajjar and Chandni Mistry who represented Queen’s Park.

The pair faced allegations that they did not live in the area and were expelled from the Labour Party but continued to sit on the council as independent councillors until they resigned earlier this month.

Sussex Police launched an investigation into allegations of electoral malpractice and complaints were also filed with the council’s audit and standards committee.

The force said there was “insufficient evidence” to support a charge.

The Argus: The by-election is being held after Bharti Ghajjar resignedThe by-election is being held after Bharti Ghajjar resigned (Image: Brighton and Hove Greens)

Ms Gajjar told The Argus when she resigned: “Since I was elected, circumstances in my life have changed significantly.

“I have been affected by serious health issues and preoccupied with supporting members of my family going through personal difficulties.

“I have also recommenced my studies in medicine, which naturally require a significant time commitment.

“As such, I have decided to step back from my role on the council. It has been an immense privilege to serve my community and more than anything I will miss the interactions with the residents whose causes I take up.”

Ricky added: “It should not have to be ordinary people paying for these by-elections during our cost-of-living crisis and as child poverty and homelessness are rising in the city. If elected, you will find me in and around the community, at the end of an email or a zoom call to highlight the things that matter to all the people of Kemptown ward.” 

The by-election in the central Brighton neighbourhood will take place on Thursday, May 2.