Long-established Conservative councillor in Blackpool defects to Reform UK

A long-serving Conservative councillor on Blackpool Council has formally left the party and joined Reform UK.

Cllr Gerard Walsh has represented the Squires Gate ward in South Shore since 2019 and has been a lifelong Conservative supporter.

He said his decision followed months of reflection and conversations with residents, leading him to consider that the values of the Conservative Party no longer aligned with the principles that first motivated him to enter public service.

In a statement, Cllr Walsh said: “After seven years serving as a councillor with the Conservative Party, I have made the decision to leave the Conservatives and join Reform UK.

“This is not a choice I take lightly, and it comes after months of reflection, discussions with constituents, and careful consideration of the values I believe public service should uphold.

“My decision reflects a deep frustration with the direction of both local and national politics and a desire to put the interests of the people I represent above party loyalty.

“Regardless of political persuasion, I want to assure residents that my commitment to the community remains unchanged. My dedication to both Squires Gate and the wider town, alongside a framework that allows me to act without restraint, to speak openly about challenges, and to pursue solutions that deliver real results, remains my number one driving force.”

He added: “As we look to the future of the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation, my focus will always be on putting residents first.”

Cllr Walsh’s move strengthens Reform UK’s growing presence on Blackpool Council. He becomes the fourth Reform UK councillor currently serving in the town

Cllr Jim O’Neill, who won Reform UK’s first ever by‑election in October 2024; Cllr Emma Ellison, who joined Reform UK after leaving the Conservatives in March 2025; Cllr Jonathan Morgan, elected in the December 2025 by‑election

Reform UK representatives say Cllr Walsh brings valuable experience, continuity, and a strong record of ward‑level service to the group.

Cllr Walsh will continue to represent Squires Gate Ward on Blackpool Council.

Cllr Paul Galley, leader of the Conservative opposition on Blackpool Council, said: “We are sorry to see Ged leave the Conservative Party and thank him for the hard work and commitment he has shown as a Conservative Councillor for Squires Gate and for Blackpool as a whole.

“Ged has always been able to speak his mind and act with independence within the Conservative Group, and we hope he enjoys the same freedom in his new political home.

“Our focus remains on serving residents, delivering for our communities and doing what is best for Blackpool. We will not be distracted by political point scoring or trading insults.

“We wish Ged well for the future and hope that, in time, he may return to the Conservative Party.”