Man had no recollection of signing proxy vote form

A man has told a court he had no recollection of signing a proxy vote form, despite his signature appearing on one.

William Sutton was giving evidence on day 14 of the Douglas East by-election fraud trial.

He told the court he was "gobsmacked" when a letter arrived at his home confirming his intention to vote by proxy.

He immediately wrote to Treasury asking for it to be revoked.

Mr Sutton was on the Island on election day, but when he went to the polling station was told his vote had already been used.

When shown a form, he said although his signature was on it, he had not actually seen it before. Under cross examination, Mr Sutton said he recalled signing his name on four separate occasions. He also said he was impressed by the canvassers at his door and suggested they visit his son.

Giving evidence, Damian Sutton said he met a women who had been to see his Dad while canvassing. He said he was asked for signature to "help the community" .. . but never knew what he was signing.

Four people are accused of dishonestly obtaining votes to get celebrity chef Kevin Woodford elected. They all deny the charges.

The trial continues