Breaking Boundaries: Conservative Councillor Joins Reform UK Amidst Political Shifts

In a striking political realignment, Councillor Daniel Jellyman, the leader of the Conservative opposition on Stoke-on-Trent City Council, has opted to leave his party and join Reform UK. Serving the Hanford, Newstead & Trentham ward since 2015, Jellyman, who previously held the position of deputy leader in the Conservative administration, declared this move as the ”right moment” for change.

Jellyman cited his frustrations with the system that he believes has impeded his ability to enact transformational changes for the community, stating that only Nigel Farage and a Reform UK government could bring about the necessary improvements, including the creation of high-skilled, well-paid jobs. He expressed his commitment to driving real change but felt constrained by unelected bureaucrats making crucial decisions.

The Conservative Party expressed disappointment over Jellyman’s departure and announced Lorraine Beardmore as the interim group leader, acknowledging Jellyman’s contributions to the party while also respecting his decision to leave. The party indicated that they are not alone in facing such challenges, noting that Jellyman was not the only councillor to resign; others, Heather Blurton and Maxine Clark, also chose to leave the Tories, opting to sit as non-aligned councillors.

Reform UK welcomed Jellyman with open arms, suggesting that his move may be part of a larger trend of defections, highlighting a growing desire for integrity and accountability within local governance. With their recent gain of a council seat in May by Luke Shenton, Reform UK appears to be consolidating a foothold in local politics, promising to bring meaningful change to areas they believe are underserved by existing political structures.