Holywell and Hawarden councillors join Reform UK
Two Flintshire County Councillors have left their independent positions to join Reform UK, taking the party’s representation on the council to three seats.
Ian Hodge, who represents Holywell East, and Helen Brown, who represents Hawarden: Aston, both announced their defections on 9 April.
Reform UK already held one seat on Flintshire County Council through Kristian Salkeld, who represents Leeswood ward.
Cllr Hodge has lived in Holywell for 44 years and had a 45-year career in the Merchant Navy, including 28 years as a Master, before retiring to focus on his council work.
Cllr Brown has represented Hawarden: Aston for 21 years and was born and raised in the area.
Cllr 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 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.”
Flintshire County Council elections are next due in 2027.