Shock Victory for Reform UK: First Councillor in Pembrokeshire Brings New Storm for Labour and Tories
Reform UK has secured a major political breakthrough in Wales, winning its first-ever councillor in Pembrokeshire as the party prepares for the upcoming Senedd elections. In a dramatic by-election victory, Scott Thorley clinched the Hakin ward seat, becoming the party’s first councillor in the area. His win is seen as a significant boost for Nigel Farage’s party, especially as elections loom on the horizon.
Thorley secured 179 votes, beating Welsh Conservative’s Kelvin Taylor into second place with 144 votes. Despite a turbulent campaign, including the withdrawal of Labour’s Nicola Harteveld after personal abuse directed at her family, Reform UK’s victory has sparked fresh tensions within both Labour and Conservative ranks.
Thorley, reflecting on his win, stated, “It’s a massive honour, and I’ve already started work responding to residents’ concerns. People just want the basics done right, and I’m here to be that person.”
With Reform UK now poised for further gains, the result in Pembrokeshire raises questions about the future political landscape in Wales, particularly as the Senedd elections approach.
