By John Phipps
A figure in a silver cape and a huge cylindrical helmet stands in front of a field of nettles in North Yorkshire. In the near distance is a market town, nestled beneath a Norman castle keep. Speaking to camera in a wavering metallic voice, the figure officially announces his bid to become the MP of Richmond and Northallerton – the parliamentary constituency of the prime minister, Rishi Sunak.
Explore more
More from 1843 magazine

1843 magazine | “In Moscow I live like a king”: why Russian exiles return
Two friends fled Putin’s mobilisation. What made one go back?

1843 magazine | How to get rich (Taylor’s version)
Think you know the story of how Taylor Swift took on the music industry? The reality is more complicated

1843 magazine | Secrets of a ransomware negotiator
When the gangs of the dark web come, most people panic. This man runs rings around them
1843 magazine | The cruise that will get you chased by the Chinese coastguard
China is bullying its rivals in the South China Sea. For some tourists, that makes it a perfect holiday destination
1843 magazine | Marwan Barghouti, the world’s most important prisoner
There’s one Palestinian who could help end the conflict. He’s in an Israeli jail
1843 magazine | How the Proud Boys are prepping for a second Trump term
They led the charge on the Capitol. What next?