A Tory and two independents have switched their allegiance to create the first Reform group on the councilCouncillors Lewis Qugg (centre), Mark Wilkinson (left) and and Sandra Hall (right)(Image: Reform UK)

Three councillors have defected to Reform giving them their first ever seats in Oldham.

Long-standing Conservative party member Lewis Quigg, who represents Royton North, has left the Tories to join the party led by Nigel Farage.

He is joined by Independent Councillors Mark Wilkinson and Sandra Hall, both of whom represent Failsworth West on the council.

Together they will form the party’s first ever official group on the authority.

Sign up to the MEN Politics newsletter Due North here

A Reform spokesman said: “We are delighted to welcome Councillors Lewis, Mark, and Sandra to the party. Their combined experience and commitment to serving local residents perfectly embodies Reform UK’s mission.”

Speaking about his defection, Coun Quigg said: “”Oldham needs leadership that puts people first. This is why I am joining Reform.

Reform have their first presence on Oldham Council(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)

“For far too long, difficult truths have been ignored while ordinary families have been left behind. Instead of fighting for the people of Oldham, the opposition parties have colluded with Labour. We have all been betrayed.

“We must restore power to the people who built this nation, confront challenges with courage, and speak honestly about what needs to change. Most of all, we must deliver tangible results for the hardworking people of Oldham and the country as a whole.

“The choice ahead of us is simple. Either accept Arooj Shah’s Labour Party vision of Oldham or stand for Reform. I choose to stand with the people of Oldham and work tirelessly to build the future they deserve.”

Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE

In a joint statement issued by Reform, Mark Wilkinson and Sandra Ball said: “”We respect the people of this Town, and we will continue to represent our residents with determination and vigour.

“It is clear that only Reform can make the impact needed. Reform UK will give us the platform and resources to serve our residents to the best of our abilities.”

They said the council was ‘failing the people of Failsworth.’

“The party politics and infighting that dominate both Labour and independent councillors are preventing the council from meeting the needs of residents” they said.

“Whilst some may be disappointed by our decision, there is no doubt that politics are changing rapidly in the UK. If we want to be part of the future, we have to change with it. We cannot stand alone.”