He says Britain’s ability to act independently in the world in order to best serve its citizens is severely hindered by its membership of the EU.

“I think Britain would be better off out. If you like the EU you can vote for the other three parties. If you don’t like it then there is only one show in town.”

He baulks at the suggestion the party shares similar territory to that of the far-right party BNP, which many fear will gain a seat in the North West in the coming election.

“That’s bonkers. We have got nothing in common with the BNP.

“Yes, we do want to control immigration, but the issue is about space, not race like the BNP.

“Race is not an issue with UKIP, we are a libertarian political party – live and let live.”

His passion for politics was fostered while studying history at Edge Hill, and he is currently working towards a PhD – although it’s deferred at the moment.

In common with many UKIP members, he originally joining the Conservative Party, but defected in 2004 because of their “duplicitous” attitude towards Europe.

His political hero is Joseph Chamberlain, because he changed 19th century politics, realising the power of the mass media and professionalising it, says Mr Nuttall.

“He smashed the Liberals, and he smashed the Tories over free trade and protectionism.

“He just had style as well,” he says, confessing he is also passionate about sartorial elegance, owning more than 300 ties.

davidbartlett