THE founder of Lush has donated £30,000 to fund Martyn Underhill’s campaign to be re-elected Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner.

Incumbent Mr Underhill told the Daily Echo that without Mark Constantine, who founded the popular cosmetics shop in Poole more than 20 years ago, he would not be able to stand in May’s election.

When the former Detective Chief Inspector, one of only 12 independent PCCs in the country, was first elected in 2012, Mr Constantine donated £15,000.

And Mr Underhill said he is “determined” to make all details of his funding public, and criticised the current system which he claims puts independent candidates at a disadvantage.

“I shouldn’t have to do this,” he said. “There should be funding available for independent people who want to stand.

“It is absolutely unfair on democracy. The fact that Mark Constantine is providing funding is fantastic – but if he hadn’t funded me I would not be standing because I can’t beat the party machine.”

He added that it is wrong the government has not invested any money into advertising the election and that “most people have no idea it is happening”.

Mr Underhill insisted that Mr Constantine does not expect him to “follow his views”, citing that they are “completely opposed on Europe”.

Mr Underhill has put his support behind the leave campaign while Mr Constantine has advocated for the UK to retain its European Union membership.

“[Mr Constantine] has not asked for anything in the last four years, and will not do so again,” said Mr Underhill.

“My main competition is clearly the Conservative Party. Dorset is a target seat for them, they will be investing a similar amount donated by their supporters and central office.”

He said that Mr Constantine’s money will help “level the playing field” and that he has no other substantial backers.

The businessman owns 830 Lush stores in 51 countries after launching the brand with wife Mo in 1995.

Mr Constantine said: “I back Martyn because he is the right candidate for the job.

“He is hard working, compassionate and believes in caring for minority groups and animals.”

Asked about the “help in kind” he received from former Bournemouth landlord Dave Wells in 2012’s election campaign, Mr Underhill said this “wasn’t a mistake”.

“I’m really grateful to Dave Wells – but don’t forget he didn’t give me money – he gave me thought and time,” said Mr Underhill.

The Labour Party and Conservative Party both confirmed that their candidates will be funded by their membership.

The election will be held on May 5.