London's Liberal Democrat Mayoral candidate, Brian Paddick, visited gay business leaders in Soho, last weekend.
The openly-gay Liberal Democrat made the appearance just weeks after he was named the party's candidate against Boris Johnson and Ken Livingstone in the 2012 mayoral race.
In particular, he spoke with owners of gay clubs and bars to identify what practical steps can be taken to support London’s night-time economy at a time when many people are deciding to stay at home.
Issue such as Westminster’s parking changes, rules on licensing, and community safety were also discussed.
According to reports, Paddick also spoke at length about how effectively the police and the community are responding to homophobic violence.
Paddick, who stood for London Mayor in 2008, beat three other candidates to re-run for the title. He secured 1,526 votes – 91 ahead of nearest competitor, Mike Tuffrey, who came in second.
Former MP Lembit Opik was also a contender, but was eliminated in the first round of voting.
Paddick, who served as the Metropolitan Police’s deputy assistant commissioner, told the BBC his main aim “is to improve the image and standing of the party in the eyes of the public”.
“I promise to devote myself full-time between now and May to securing the best possible result for the Liberal Democrats,” he added.