[1] The local Unionist association had previously backed Sir Ian Macpherson, as a supporter of the National Government.

This caused divisions in the local Unionists, and the Chairman, Sir William Martineau resigned, declaring his support for Malcolm MacDonald.

It was alleged that Churchill's supporters had packed the meeting with 60 farm labourers instructed to vote for him,[3] although this number would not have changed the outcome.

The campaign was notable for many verbal attacks on MacDonald by Churchill, who said his opponent had a "deplorable record", merely wanted to "get his greedy paws on the high offices of state",[7] and that people resented the constituency being "used as a dumping ground for ministers who have been defeated".

A great many National Government MPs came to speak on his behalf, while Churchill was notably lacking in supporters.

Churchill polled poorly, only just saving his deposit, and the Liberal candidate did extremely badly, with just 4% of the vote.