Several long-serving Gloucestershire County Council members have openly reflected on their recent election defeats, with many expressing that they “could see it coming” amid the changing political landscape. The latest elections dramatically reshaped the council’s composition, as the Liberal Democrats surged to become the largest party with 27 councillors. Meanwhile, the Conservatives, who formerly held council control, were dramatically reduced to just six seats.
Reform UK gained 11 seats—mostly taken from former Conservative strongholds—while the Green Party achieved its best performance yet with nine councillors elected. Labour also faced significant losses, relinquishing four of five previously held seats amid the rise of Reform and Green voters.
Graham Morgan, a veteran councillor from Cinderford and former union representative first elected in 2001, was among those who lost their seats. “I had an idea that would happen,” he admitted. “People were put off by the main parties.” Morgan noted the Reform UK candidate who defeated him was largely unknown to the community and relatively new to the area. “They put themselves forward without knowing what they were getting into,” he remarked.
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Though losing his county seat, Morgan will continue to serve as chairman of the town council. He expressed sympathy for Steve Robinson, now the sole Labour representative at Shire Hall, describing him as being “like Billy no mates.” Morgan was also candid about his party’s decline, blaming policy decisions like cutting the winter fuel allowance and lamenting the loss of the working-class roots and charismatic leaders he once admired.
Another Labour councillor, John Bloxsom of Rodborough and group leader, acknowledged the sting of his narrow defeat by just 12 votes. “It’s frustrating to lose due to a local election being used as a ‘message’ to the national government,” he said, adding he would take time to reflect.
Among the Conservatives losing their seats was Pam Tracey, current Sheriff of Gloucester, who pledged to continue serving the Hempsted and Westgate communities as a City Councillor. “I’m here for everyone—that’s what it’s all about,” she affirmed.
Tim Harman, defeated in Lansdown and Park, described his loss as “not unexpected” due to Reform UK’s surge. After 12 years of service, he expressed pride in his achievements and remains open to standing again in the future.
Alan Preest, former county chairman and Lydney Councillor, also foresaw the results during the campaign’s closing weeks. “Nervousness was palpable,” he said. Despite the loss after 16 years on the council, Preest extended congratulations to the winners and pledged cooperation. He remains hopeful that common sense will guide upcoming debates and reflected on the Conservative legacy of a financially stable council.
Terry Hale, who represented Dyrbrook and Lydbrook for 12 years, warned of challenges ahead for the Conservatives in the Forest of Dean. “My fear is that with the Lib Dems in control, we risk losing our identity and struggling to defend our heritage,” he said.
The new political landscape in Gloucestershire County Council stands at 27 Liberal Democrats, 11 Reform UK, 9 Greens, 6 Conservatives, 1 Labour & Co-operative, and 1 Independent, marking a significant shift in local governance.