Cllr Helen Brown and Cllr Ian Hodge (Image: Facebook)
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Two independent county councillors in Flintshire have switched allegiance to Reform UK as the party continues to build its presence in Wales ahead of key elections 🏴
The defections
Reform UK has confirmed that Cllr Ian Hodge, who represents Holywell East, and Cllr Helen Brown, who sits for the Hawarden Aston ward, have both joined the party. The pair had previously served as independents on Flintshire County Council.
Their move comes as Nigel Farage’s party rides high in the polls and prepares for a closely-fought battle with Plaid Cymru at the Senedd election in May. Reform has attracted a steady stream of defections from other parties in recent months – with Conservative politicians, including former ministers, among those switching sides.
About the councillors
Cllr Hodge has been a Holywell resident for 44 years, living in the town with his wife Lyn. He retired from a 45-year Merchant Navy career – during which he spent 28 years serving as a Master – to dedicate himself to council duties.
Cllr Brown is a lifelong local resident who has served her ward for more than two decades, holding a number of senior positions during that time.
In their own words
Cllr Ian Hodge said: “Today I am proud to be joining Reform UK in Wales. The traditional parties have let people down for far too long, and there is a growing list of issues that urgently need addressing.
“As a councillor, I am committed to making my community a better place for residents to live, and I believe I can best achieve that with the support of Reform.
“Together with my new Reform colleagues, I look forward to working to deliver hope and a brighter future.”
Cllr Helen Brown said: “I am joining Reform UK because I believe they are the only party both willing and capable of turning our country around. For far too long the main parties have been in power and have repeatedly failed to deliver. It is time for new thinking and fresh ideas to move Wales forward.
“As an Independent councillor, I was limited in my ability to fully deliver the changes that the residents of my community deserve. With the backing of Reform UK, I look forward to continuing to serve my community with renewed optimism and determination.”
A Reform UK spokesman said: “We are delighted to welcome Ian and Helen to Reform UK. They are an excellent addition to our growing team in Wales as we build towards the next Senedd and local elections.”
