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Two councillors from Reform UK, Kenny Hope and Andrew Harrison, have recently left the party following their suspension. The suspensions were announced by Durham County Council’s deputy leader, Darren Grimes, who indicated that internal investigations were underway but declined to provide further details due to the ongoing nature of the inquiries. Despite their suspension, both councillors confirmed on Friday that they had resigned from Reform UK and intend to continue their duties as independent representatives.
Kenny Hope, who serves Delves Lane in Consett, and Andrew Harrison, representing Seaham, cited a complete breakdown in their relations with the leadership of Durham Reform as the reason for their departure. A spokesperson from the national Reform UK organization expressed uncertainty about how the duo could formally resign given their suspended status since Monday. Nevertheless, both councillors are moving forward independently, distancing themselves from the party’s local leadership.
Hope expressed deep regret over his decision to leave the party. In a letter, he revealed that resigning as Durham Reform’s group whip weeks earlier had triggered what he described as bullying and harassment. He alleged that certain leadership elements were attempting to silence him and added that leadership should be about respect and unity rather than hierarchy or control. Hope emphasized his commitment to serving his constituents professionally, selflessly, and with integrity.
Meanwhile, Harrison attributed his resignation to “irreconcilable differences with the leadership in Durham” and a perceived lack of support. He assured residents of Seaham that he would continue serving them as an independent councillor, motivated by a desire to accomplish tasks promptly and without distraction. Andrew Husband, the Durham County Council Reform leader, refrained from commenting extensively due to the ongoing investigations but remarked that with 65 members and strong personalities, conflicts were to be expected. He stated that they would complete the investigations before issuing any further public statements
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