Helston’s longstanding MP for 18 years, and current General Election candidate for the Liberal Democrats, Andrew George, has announced that he will prioritise attendance of Helston’s Flora Day over the attendance of the General Election Count, which happens on the same day at Carn Brea.

Having consulted the Council’s Returning Officer about the timings of the count, Mr George has decided to fulfil his commitments at Helston Flora Day before attending the count.

Mr George is performing as St Piran in the early morning Hal-an-Tow pageant and then is due to dance the Midday Dance, which he usually does with his wife Jill and sometimes his daughter Morvah.

In a statement, he said that he wants to fulfil his commitments to Helston Flora Day before attending the count.

Mr George said: “I have never missed Flora Day. It is the most important day in the local calendar – more important, in most peoples’ eyes, than even the General Election. I agree and that’s why I’ll be spending a full day at Helston, though I may have to miss watching the 5pm dance.

Me George added: “I’m very grateful to the Flora Day Committee for their forbearance whilst I have been seeking advice before making this decision.”