Borough councillor for Walsoken, West Walton and Walpole ward defects from Conservatives to Reform UK

A borough councillor who represents the Walsoken, West Walton and Walpole ward has defected from the Conservative Party to Reform UK.

Julian Kirk, who is on West Norfolk Council, was joined in moving to Nigel Farage’s party by Peter Hodson, councillor for Denver ward.

Council leader Cllr Alistair Beales said he believes the two councillors should stand for re-election following their change in party.

The council is unusual by being one of the few Independent-controlled councils in the county and country.

The coalition, which also includes Liberal Democrats and Green Party members, has been in control since the May 2023 elections.