THE UK Independence Party is set to make big gains in today’s local elections.

Under the colourful leadership of Nigel Farage, Ukip has become the default protest party for voters thoroughly fed-up by the political establishment.

Ukip has had to fend off national allegations about the extreme right wing views of some of its supporters and candidates.

The story on our front page today will cause Ukip huge embarrassment.

However, Tony Nixon makes no secret of his racist views. They are published for everyone to read on his Facebook page. Some have been there for several years.

Regardless of the political party, we believe racist views like those on Mr Nixon’s Facebook page have no place in British politics.

We are glad Ukip is taking the matter seriously and urge the party to review its vetting procedures as soon as possible.

That aside, voters going to the polls today face an uninspired choice. The Tories are unpopular, the opposition is unconvincing and the Lib Dems are in meltdown.

But local elections are important.

They are about local services, better roads, cleaner streets and tackling anti-social behaviour. If you want your council to do better, then make your vote count.

If you really want your complaints addressed, then this is the moment to stick up for yourself.

Elections are about making your voice heard – please do not waste the chance.