Reform UK councillors from Gloucestershire have sparked controversy by announcing plans to leave their local duties temporarily to camp out and campaign in Clacton-on-Sea, nearly 180 miles away, in support of Nigel Farage’s recent by-election.
Farage resigned as MP earlier this week amid allegations concerning undisclosed donations. He insists the investigations are politically motivated and maintains that he has done nothing wrong, calling on voters to judge his actions.
Expressing solid backing for their leader, Reform UK Gloucestershire stated that every councillor intends to visit Clacton at least once or twice to show their support during the by-election campaign.
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Major political parties including Labour, the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, the Green Party, and Restore Britain have all chosen not to contest the seat, which has left space for unconventional candidates such as comedy politician Count Binface to take the spotlight.
The move by Gloucestershire Reform councillors has drawn sharp criticism from other local political leaders. Conservative group leader Stephen Davies accused Reform councillors of neglecting their local responsibilities, claiming their focus is on “saving Nigel Farage from explaining a £5 million donation” rather than serving Gloucestershire residents. He emphasized that Conservatives will remain dedicated to local work instead of campaigning in Clacton.
Similarly, Liberal Democrat leader Lisa Spivey condemned the decision, stressing that councillors are elected to serve their local communities first and foremost. She described the by-election as a diversion tactic designed to distract from mounting controversies surrounding Farage and Reform UK. Spivey criticized Gloucestershire Reform councillors for prioritizing the far-away campaign over pressing local issues.
The Green Party echoed these sentiments, condemning the by-election as a waste of £275,000 in public funds. Group leader Beki Hoyland confirmed that their councillors will stay focused on Gloucestershire, working hard for local residents instead of joining what she called a “media circus.” Fellow Green councillor Gary Luff added that Reform UK’s choice to defend Farage in Clacton against a comedic opponent rather than address local work sends a troubling message to their constituents.
In contrast, Independent councillor Alastair Chambers will travel to Clacton to support Count Binface, emphasizing the importance of democracy and voter choice. Chambers expressed enthusiasm for bringing humor and energy to the campaign trail.
Reform UK Gloucestershire leader Vernon Smith hailed the by-election as a “massive opportunity” for their movement. He described their team as energised and unified, eager to campaign in Clacton and secure what he called a “historic victory.” Smith framed the contest as a referendum on democratic fairness in the UK and vowed to mobilise immediate support on the ground, turning opposition into momentum for political revolution.