A city council candidate has apologised after using a picture of Worcester’s foodbank manager on two election leaflets.

Alex Mace, who is standing for the Green Party in the St Stephen ward, admitted using the photo without permission and said its inclusion on election material had been inappropriate.

The image showed Mr Mace, who organised a Christmas collection for Worcester Foodbank, with manager Grahame Lucas.

In both a Facebook post and a statement to the Worcester News, Mr Mace said he should not have used the image for party political purposes.

“The foodbank is entirely apolitical and cannot endorse any party, including the Green Party,” he said.

“It is vital that it is not perceived to be endorsing any party either, so it was inappropriate for me to use a picture of Grahame and myself from our Christmas chocolate donation without permission on two election leaflets in St Stephen.

“In both cases, the photos were presented to show positive action I have taken in the ward and were not intended to show any endorsement by Grahame or Worcester Foodbank.

“I have apologised to Grahame, apologised on social media and I apologise now: I am sorry for using the photo without permission.

“As soon as I was notified, I stopped distribution of the leaflets containing the picture. The work of the foodbank is absolutely vital and it is supported by all parties.”

Mr Mace said the matter was raised with him by Mr Lucas, adding that he has not been contacted about this by either the city council or the Electoral Commission.

On its website, the Electoral Commission says it provides guidance and advice on the rules around printed and digital election material, but does not enforce them.

Election guidance from the Trussell Trust, which runs Worcester Foodbank, says food banks can’t be party political. Other advice is given to ensure the organisation does not look politically biased.

We have asked Worcester Foodbank for comment.