A REFORM UK county councillor has defected to the Conservatives.
Cllr Charlotte Kelly confirmed her change of allegiance this morning (8th June), meaning the ruling group drops to 43 members and the Tories group increases to 12.
The Leek Rural representative was elected in May last year – but she says that since her then she has experienced personal difficulties within Reform, which have now led her to leave the party.
Conservative opposition group leader Cllr Philip White welcomed Cllr Kelly, describing her as a "dedicated and hardworking" councillor.
He added:
"She has spoken openly about the difficulties she has faced as a Reform member and throughout that time we have sought to offer friendship, support and encouragement.
"Charlotte knows the Conservative team well from her previous involvement with the party, and we are pleased that she has decided to rejoin.
"Her experience, local knowledge and commitment will make her a valuable member of our group, and I look forward to working alongside her to deliver for residents across Staffordshire."
Cllr Kelly, who was previously a member of the Conservatives, believes she has returned to her "natural home".
She said:
"Having previously been a member of the Conservative Party, I already knew many of the people involved and the values they stand for.
"I am traditional Conservative and under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership I feel the party is my natural home.
"I am looking forward to working with colleagues who share my commitment to serving local residents and to treating all people fairly and equally.
"My focus remains on delivering for residents and standing up for the communities I was elected to serve."
Reform won 49 of the 62 county council seats in last year’s election, but the party’s numbers have fallen over the last 13 months.
Three ex-Reform councillors, including two former group leaders, are currently sitting as independents, while two others have resigned from the authority.
A by-election will be held for the vacant Stretton seat in East Staffordshire later this month, following the resignation of Reform councillor Barry Martin.
