Northamptonshire Councillors Join Reform UK Ranks

Two councillors from North Northamptonshire have become members of Reform UK. Ken Harrington, who represents Hatton Park in Wellingborough, has moved from the Conservative Party, while Irchester councillor Martin Griffiths was previously an independent. These two individuals are the first members of the party founded by Nigel Farage to serve on the council, which is currently controlled by the Conservatives. Jason Smithers, leader of North Northamptonshire Council, commented that Harrington had been a “dedicated member of the political landscape” locally, but acknowledged that “his political philosophy has evolved.” Smithers stated: “We understand that political convictions are subject to change and respect Mr Harrington’s decision to align himself with a party that better reflects his current views.” Griffiths previously served as a Conservative leader for the now-defunct Borough Council of Wellingborough before becoming an independent councillor in 2021. On his Facebook page, Griffiths explained that his decision to affiliate with Reform UK came after a meeting with the “excellent” party chairman Zia Yusuf and “a lot of soul searching.” He also expressed his approval of Harrington’s “bold decision” to join Reform UK. Griffiths further added: “I realise that this decision will not be universally accepted by some but it is based, as my whole political life has been based, on what is best for the people I represent, and the country that I am proud to call home.” Harrington informed the BBC that becoming a member of Reform UK would “give me my voice back to speak on behalf of the people of Wellingborough.” The councillor, who possesses 36 years of service, remarked: “I haven’t joined Reform UK lightly. I’ve been thinking about it for the last six months.”