UKIP local borough candidacy

So I guess, by now, you will have read or been told that I'm standing as a UKIP candidate in the local borough election on 2nd May? Well, yes it's true. I have had some - to say the least - not very nice comments and smears; and some downright lies. These have been on newspaper web sites (comment sections), Facebook, and even my own site here. Now, never in my whole life did I think that I would get the abuse I have from doing this.I started this journey after being asked by the local Bolton UKIP Branch if I'd stand as a candidate - even just as a paper candidate. I threw my hat into the ring and agreed to stand as a paper candidate. This meant that I would just be a name on the ballot paper for someone who might want to vote for UKIP.Over the past few weeks as I've helped other candidates with their campaigns - delivering leaflets and helping fellow candidates with table days and I have really enjoyed the camaraderie.I have expirienced unbelievable support from friends and family and some colleagues, which I never expected and it has given me a boost of confidence.Then there is the negative side to it, where I get attacked for my views; or even perceived views. I'm sure it will all die down after the election. It can get quite nasty at times; and I'm sure it's just an intimidation technique trying to make me give up and quit. However, it's having the total opposite effect. The more negativity I get, the more I want to do it.So, all I can say is thank you for anyone who supports me, and thank you to those who are negative and spurring me on even more.Paul