THESE West End residents were in for a shock when they opened their doors to see Boris Johnson standing on the step.

The Prime Minister visited Woodland Mews this afternoon to join the Conservative local election candidate, Jerry Hall, in his canvassing.

Shocked families in the quiet road answered the knock, only to find the PM, alongside his team, journalists, photographers and Government representatives.

“What a lovely place to live,” was the phrase repeated by Mr Johnson who had just visited Southampton Airport.


Read more - Main article continues below: 


“Will you be voting for Jerry?” he asked one family. “The Lib Dems have been in power here for too long,” he said to another.

Gordon Downes was one of the homeowners who spoke with the PM.

Daily Echo:

He told the Echo: “It’s absolutely wonderful, we get a real enthusiasm for what he’s doing, especially with Ukraine.

“He gets my vote.”

Eastleigh MP Paul Holmes also joined the canvassing session.

Gurleen Kaur, who was standing with her child in her arms whilst speaking with Mr Johnson and Mr Holmes, said: “It was shocking to be honest!

“I thought it was general, local people – different parties doing campaigning and my mum said I don’t think it’s a normal campaign, I think it’s the Prime Minister.

“’Oh yes, it is!’, I said. It’s quite nice to see him in person rather than just on the TV.”

Voters will be heading to the polling stations tomorrow.


READ MORE: Why those elected at this year's elections may only stand for one year 


There are 14 wards in the borough of Eastleigh represented by 39 councillors – and Jerry Hall is hoping to win West End South.

Daily Echo: Mr Johnson and Mr HallMr Johnson and Mr Hall

“I’m absolutely delighted the Prime Minister has come down to West End South, he has visited before,” he said.

“Last time we went to the pub, we went to the hairdressers and this time we are out in the Mews, which is a beautiful place in West End South.

“We’ve had really good reception on the doorstep so I’m really hopeful for a good turnout tomorrow, and I’m hoping that I’m going to win the seat and serve the people of West End as they deserve to be served.”

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't take my word for it - subscribe here to see for yourself.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by joining our Facebook group - Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated Facebook group - Hampshire Court and Crime News