A SOUTH Essex council has its first Reform UK councillor, after the party had a “landslide majority” at the polls.
The party won the Canvey Island Winter Gardens seat on Castle Point Council during the by-election on May 29. Reece Langley received 712 votes with 53.02 per cent of the votes. There were 1,343 votes collected which was a 23.3 per cent turnout.
Paul Harbord, for the Conservatives, won 233 votes, Steve Sach, candidate for the Canvey Independents Party, received 200 votes, Moreblessing Chasiya, Labour candidate, got 131 votes and Bob Chapman, for the Green Party, had 67 votes at the polls. Former longstanding councillor Peter Grieg, 77, passed away on March 14.
It means there is now one councillor in opposition on the council as the authority is run by Canvey Island Independent and People’s Independent Party. It’s the latest victory for the party, lead by Nigel Farage, after wins at other councils.
Mr Langley said: “The kind people of Canvey Island Winter Gardens had an opportunity to have their voices heard. Firstly congratulations to all other candidates, every one of them and their team showed their dedication during this election. It is unfortunate that a by-election was required after he sad passing of councillor Peter Greig, who I know was liked by the members and will be dearly missed.
“The result was overwhelming with a landslide majority which shows the residents of Winter Gardens desperately want a change in politics. This is a key moment in history, making Reform UK’s first win in Castle Point while taking over a previous independent stronghold. It is an honour to part of this landmark, however this is only the start of the journey and we cannot afford to rest. I want to thank every person who has supported the campaign and all voters who took to the stations to cast their vote. I look forward to working with every resident in Winter Gardens in the very near future.”
A Reform UK spokesman said: “We congratulate councillor Langley on his overwhelming victory in Castle Point. Reece will be a strong champion for his local community.”
Categories: Elections
