REFORM UK on Solihull Council has elected its new leader.
Councillor Samantha Gethen has been appointed as the new group leader after the previous leader, Michael Gough, lost out to the Conservatives in Silhill.
Coun Gethen will also serve as leader of the opposition on Solihull Council after the party won 17 of the 51 seats on offer following an all out election due to ward boundary changes.
Coun Gethen said: “It is a huge honour to have the confidence and support of my colleagues to lead the Reform UK Group at such an important time for Solihull. Residents voted for change at these elections and we are determined to be a strong, constructive and principled opposition that stands up for local people.
“My priorities will be protecting frontline services, championing local businesses, fighting for families and ensuring residents finally feel listened to by their council again. Reform UK is now a serious force in Solihull politics and we intend to hold the administration properly to account.”
Coun Gethen, who represents Fordbridge ward and previously served as councillor for St Alphege, is known as an advocate for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Alongside her council work, she is a business owner and longstanding champion of small and independent businesses across Solihull.
The group also elected Councillor Alan Feeney as deputy leader.
He has served on a number of key scrutiny and policy committees at the council and has built a strong following through his community campaigning.
Coun Feeney said: “This is a landmark moment for Reform UK in Solihull. Residents are frustrated with politics as usual and they want councillors who will actually fight for their communities. Samantha brings energy, experience and determination to this role and I’m proud to support her as deputy leader.
“Our group is united, ambitious and ready to provide the strong opposition Solihull residents deserve.”
The Reform UK Group said the new leadership team would focus on restoring trust in local politics, scrutinising council spending, standing up for residents affected by inappropriate development and ensuring the voices of ordinary working people are heard at the heart of the council chamber.
