New Barnsley Council Reform group leaders selected

Reform UK has named William Brown as its group leader on Barnsley Council, after the party ended 50 years of Labour control in the town.

Brown, who was elected in the North East ward, will be supported by newly appointed deputy leader Edward Dillingham, who represents the Stairfoot ward.

Reform took 42 of the 63 seats at last week's election to secure a majority, with Brown and Dillingham set to be formally nominated to lead the council on 29 May.

Brown said: "It will be an honour to serve as the Leader of Barnsley Council. We're now working to appoint a Cabinet that will support us in taking the council forward for the benefit of all residents in the borough, including those who voted for us and those who did not."

Brown describes himself as a family man who served 10 years in the military and has also worked in the private sector.

He added: "We understand people are keen to hear our plans for Barnsley, but it's important we don't rush into major decisions.

"We're in a period of transition, and we will have more to say in the coming weeks."

Dillingham added: "William will be a great leader for Barnsley and I look forward to working with him as we take the council forward.

"We're here for every resident, and we're committed to making our borough an even better place to live."

Following last week's local elections, Labour have the second largest number of councillors, with 11, while the Liberal Democrats have eight and there are two Independent councillors.

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