Cannock Tory councillor among 20 to defect to Reform UK on eve of Conservative conference finale

Cannock Chase District Council's Richard Craddock, a former Tory, has joined Nigel Farage’s party claiming that only Reform have the answers to the biggest problems facing the nation. 

Councillor Craddock has represented Cannock Longford & Bridgtown ward since 2024 and had previously been a member of the Conservative party. But he says the “party has left him” and he “feels let down by so many broken promises.” 

“I have joined Reform because of their determination to uphold British culture, identity, and values. As a resident of the ward for more than 45 years, I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I am proud to now represent my residents from a party that continues to put the best interests of the British people first." 

"The last 16 months have passed by in what seems like a blink of an eye, helping residents with many issues from housing, council tax, planning, and anti-social behaviour. I am committed to making this community the best it can be for everyone,” Councillor Craddock said.

He is among 20 Tory councillors from across the country to give the thumbs down to Kemi Badenoch's leadership on the eve of the Conservation party finale as the trend of defections to Reform UK continues.

Welcoming councillor Craddock, Reform stated: “We’re delighted to have Richard on board. We welcome anyone who shares our vision for integrity, accountability, and meaningful change to join us.” 

Mr Farage said: “The Conservative Party is dead and can no longer serve as an effective opposition. It is no wonder that councillors who actually want to fix this country are finding their natural home with Reform.“

Reform UK won 677 seats at the local elections in May and now controls several former Conservative-controlled authorities including Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Kent, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, North Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, and West Northamptonshire.