Reform UK is hoping to continue its success in local elections this week in what could be a historic by-election victory. Nigel Farage’s party wants to win its first-ever seat on the Labour-run Luton Borough Council.
On Thursday, people in Stopsley, a north-east suburb of Luton, Bedfordshire, will head to the ballot box to cast their vote. The by-election was triggered after Councillor David Wynn, deputy leader of the Luton Liberal Democrats, died in June. In the last four council elections, the Lib Dems have won all seats within the ward.
The party recorded a landslide victory in the ward in 2023, securing 78% of the votes.
Reform UK’s Jim Cohen will be looking to reverse Lib Dem-dominance in Stopsley in what would be a significant result for the party.
Mark Fowler, who ensures the election is administered effectively as returning officer, said: “This by-election gives all eligible residents in Stopsley the opportunity to elect a ward councillor to represent them.
“The role of a local councillor in our town is a significant and vital one, as they demonstrate their understanding of what matters to people in their local area and ensure that local democracy is strong and effective.”
The two other councillors in the Stopsley ward are both Liberal Democrats.
The last election for Luton Borough Council was held in 2023 and saw Labour win 30 seats, the Lib Dems 15 and Conservatives 3.
Reform UK has celebrated a successful year in local elections after making significant gains across England in May.
The party won more than 600 seats and took control of 10 local authorities.
Mr Farage claimed the results marked “the end of two-party politics” and the “beginning of the end of the Conservative Party”.