A UNION has hit out at the decision by one of its members to stand as a British National Party candidate.
Fitter Allen Milton is one of 16 candidates being fielded by the far-right party at next month's Kirklees Council elections.
He is employed by the council at its cleansing depot in Vine Street, Hillhouse, and is bidding for election in Newsome.
Officials of the local government union Unison reacted angrily.
Branch secretary Paul Holmes said: "We are hugely disappointed that one of our members has chosen to do this."
Mr Milton would only comment through Kirklees BNP councillor David Exley, who asked:
"Are they saying they don't agree with the democratic process or with the judgement of the people of Newsome?"
The BNP is fielding 101 candidates in the Yorkshire region in the local elections on June 10.
The number is more than twice last year's figure and brought fears that community relations could be damaged.
Kevin Barron, chairman of the Yorkshire group of Labour MPs, said he was concerned by the figures.
The Rother Valley MP said: "They play on people's fears and create fears that fascist parties have done over the years in Europe and they are no different.
"I hope the people give them a resounding `No' on June 10."
Kirklees Council said it had no comment.
