Reform UK claims first Ynys Môn council seat in by-election win

Reform UK has secured a landmark victory in Wales, claiming its first-ever seat on Isle of Anglesey County Council after winning the Ynys Gybi ward by-election.

Celfyn Furlong took the seat with a commanding 603 votes, overturning what had been a Plaid Cymru stronghold with a majority of 260. His closest challenger, Plaid’s Bethan Jones, finished on 343 votes, whilst Labour’s Mary Roberts secured 171. Just over a third of eligible voters turned out, with 33.3% participation and one spoiled ballot.

The seat became vacant following the death of Trefor Lloyd Hughes MBE last November. The 77-year-old had served the community for years and was a former president of the Football Association of Wales.

Furlong’s victory marks a significant milestone for Reform UK, giving the party its first representative on the council. Plaid Cymru remains the dominant force with 19 councillors, whilst independents hold 11 seats. Labour has three councillors, and both the Liberal Democrats and now Reform UK have one each. The Ynys Gybi ward is also represented by Labour’s Keith Roberts and independent Dafydd Rhys Thomas.

Following his election, the new councillor honoured his predecessor’s legacy. He described Mr Lloyd Hughes as a “talisman” who had given years of service to the community and to Wales, adding that he was “humbled and honoured” to be elected and pledged to work hard for local residents.