Reform UK elect Warwickshire leader

ROB Howard has been elected Reform UK group leader in Warwickshire following the historic local election result.

Reform UK became the largest party on Warwickshire County Council after securing 23 of the 57 seats – just six short of a majority – having started with none when the polls opened.

Coun Howard, who won the Attleborough in Nuneaton, has had an extensive career in sales and marketing rising from representative to managing director. He ran his own consultancy business from 2004 to 2022 and lives with his partner of 20 years.

He will be joined by George Finch, councillor for Bedworth Central, as deputy leader.

Coun Rob Howard said: “It’s an honour and a privilege to have been elected leader of the Reform UK group on Warwickshire County Council.

“What we have achieved here is incredible. From a standing start we are now the largest party on the council. The people of Warwickshire have given this council a mandate for serious change, and we look forward to delivering for them.”

WCC has been left in no overall control after the Conservatives, who had ruled since 2017, were left with just nine seats, having previously held 41 before voters went to the polls. Long-time Tory leader Izzi Seccombe was among those who lost her seat.

Reform has alluded to the possibility of working with other parties to run WCC, which remains under major financial pressure, having committed to £21.8million in budget reductions for 2025/26, increasing to £79.6 million by 2030.

The Liberal Democrats are now the second largest party at Shire Hall with 14 seats, having gained a further nine, while The Green Party has seven seats, after winning a further four.