THE founder of a social media page launched to discuss Wisbech’s “immigration issues” says its popularity has inspired her to stand for election.

Sharon Jardine, 49, from Tydd Gote, will stand for UKIP in May’s Cambridgeshire County Council elections after her “Wisbech Immigration Issues” Facebook page attracted 1,000 members.

She is also planning to hold a “static protest” in Wisbech Park to allow “everyday people to send the message that immigration is out of control”.

She said: “I started the immigration page and it suddenly careered up to 1,000 members. We are accepting new ones every day.

“I started to learn more about UKIP but I’m not someone who is political. I just believe that immigration is out of control and it needs to be sorted.

“People feel helpless and they have had enough. We’ve got no issues with people coming into the country, working, paying taxes and obeying the law - it’s those that aren’t.”

Ms Jardine said it was “ridiculous” to suggest that her beliefs - or her Facebook page - were racist.

“I police the page very strictly,” she said. “If I see anyone being racist they will be removed and banned.

“I did a surgery on Saturday in Wisbech. There were so many people who talked to us about immigration.

“Pensioners told me about immigrants who were urinating in their garden, how they had their fences kicked in and how they were scared to go outside.

“Those are people who can’t take it any more.”

Ms Jardine, who was appointed as UKIP’s media liasion officer for North-East Cambs this week, said she hoped to stage the protest in Wisbech Park on May 18, from 1-2pm.

She is discussing permission for the event with Fenland District Council and claims that about 1,000 people could attend.

“This is not about offending or upsetting people,” she said. “I want it to be respectful and peaceful.

“We’re asking that no alcohol is brought because one of our major complaints is about drinking in the park.

“These static protests are going to happen all over the country. It’s for people to get the message across that they are unhappy. They are pleased to have a voice.”