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Reform takes first steps into Walsall Council after narrow win in Pelsall by-election

The Reform Party has secured its first councillor at Walsall Council after its candidate was narrowly voted in following a by-election.

By James Vukmirovic
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Graham Eardley won the by-election, winning by 55 votes from the Conservative Party candidate Lee Chapman.

The by-election came following the sudden resignation of the previous Walsall Council leader and Pelsall ward councillor, Garry Perry, with Mr Perry having stood down from politics after raising concerns over a lack of transparency and tone deafness to the challenge. 

The former leader resigned from the top role in Walsall Council 'with immediate effect' on May 21, citing a 'campaign of political attrition' and 'deliberate undermining and personal hostility' among the reasons, and stood down from his role as councillor on August 4.

The turnout for the by-election was 31.98 per cent and saw the following result declared:

  • Dan Barker, Liberal Democrat - 72 votes 

  • Joe Belcher, Green Party - 127 votes 

  • Lee Michael James Chapman, The Conservative Party Candidate - 1,176 votes 

  • Graham Eardley, Reform UK - 1,231 votes (Elected) 

  • Hannah Jones, Labour Party Candidate - 125 votes

Credit Walsall Council Permission for use for LDR partners
Graham Eardley celebrates with Marco Longhi and supporters after winning the by-election

Mr Eardley took to social media to thank those who had voted for him, saying: "Thank you, Pelsall, the people’s army is on the March in Walsall Council."

Conservative candidate Lee Chapman said: "We didn’t get the result we hoped for tonight.It was a very close race, but Reform edged it. 

"The national picture has clearly played a big part in this by-election, and it shows how strongly those feelings can carry into local contests.

"That said, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who came out to vote, supported me, and stood by our campaign.

"We ran a strong, positive campaign built on service, community, and putting Pelsall first and I’m proud of the effort, energy, and teamwork that went into every part of it.

"A special thank you to the brilliant Conservative team, my family, and to all of you in Pelsall who put your trust in me with your vote.

"This by-election may be over, but my commitment to our community doesn’t stop here."