Labour's candidate for Croydon Central - or was it action hero Jack Bauer? - embarked on a 24-hour mission on Monday.

Thankfully for Sarah Jones, there were no evil villains, terrorist plots or cyber attacks on her round-the-clock tour of the constituency. 

Instead, she spoke to commuters, workers, charities and community groups on a gruelling marathon as her campaign to oust Conservative Gavin Barwell hit full stride. 

Her epic assignment began at East Croydon station at 7am and took her to Wolsey Infant School and a knitting group in New Addington, Cotelands Nursery in South Croydon, and Toni and Guy hairdressers in Croydon High Street.

Mrs Jones also stopped by Nightwatch's soup kitchen in Queen's Gardens, a youth club, a Tesco warehouse, and a bus depot before finishing at Surrey Street market for a well-earned breakfast at 7am yesterday.

She said the slog, which marked the launch of her election pledges, had given her "a new perspective on the town and what changes we need to deliver".

Your Local Guardian:

Would you trust a politician with your hair? Labour activist Roshni Fernando would - with hairdresser Stephen Martin on hand

Mrs Jones added: "This has really been a wonderful experience – I’ve spoken to so many inspirational people from all walks of life who make Croydon the amazing town it is.  I learnt a lot and saw whole new aspects of Croydon living.   

"What I heard loud and clear was that for the people of Croydon, they want to be proud and live their lives, but they feel let down by this Government.  
 
"What is clear to me is that Croydon has huge potential because of the great people who live in this town.  But what was also clear was that we face some major challenges."

She went on: "My vision for Croydon is a thriving economy that works for everyone, homes our children can afford and a revitalised NHS. That is the positive future I am fighting for.  Croydon can and should be the beating heart of south London.

"My pledges will make a real difference to their lives – more doctors and nurses, cuts to small business rates, GP appointments in less than 48 hours, a raised minimum wage, more free childcare, a guaranteed job for young people."

Comedian Eddie Izzard and shadow business secretary Chuka Ummuna were among the high-profile Labour figures who tweeted their support during Mrs Jones's marathon mission.