Reform sees first Conservative councillor defector - weeks after expulsion from the Tories

has welcomed his first Tory councillor defection after he wrote to 1,350 local politicians last night warning them to cross the floor or face losing their seats.

Yesterday the Reform leader called on all 1,352 Conservative county councillors to join others who have already made the leap, warning: "They are all working within a party whose brand has been trashed by scandal and broken promises".

Mr Farage said: "The Conservative Party is a busted flush - these 1352 councillors are watching their time in office tick away, whilst they argue between themselves on whether to choose a Leader that's undergone a damascene political conversion and a someone who won't leave the ECHR.

"I urge any Conservative Party Councillors who believe in their country and share our values to join Reform UK as we build on the extraordinary inroads we made at the General Election."

This morning Mr Farage's demand was answered by Jamey McIvor, a county councillor in Essex, who became the first Tory councillor to defect to Reform UK since Mr Farage issued his letter last night.

Mr McIvor made his announcement this morning, saying that in order to contuse representing his voters "to the highest standard" he has joined Reform UK.

He tweeted: "It is an honour to represent my community and serve the people of Ontario and its beautiful surrounding Essex villages.

"In order to continue to do so to the highest standard, I'm delighted to announce I have joined Reform UK. It's time to save Britain."

He added the prediction: "I think I will be the first of many Reform Councillors on Essex County Council as we head towards the May 2025 elections!"

However the defection could cause a headache for Mr Farage, as Mr McIvor was expelled from the Tory Party earlier this month after facing a disciplinary investigation and hearing.

He had been due to stand for the Conservative Party in the Hertfordshire constituency of Hemel Hempstead at the election, but was suspended by the Tories just hours before nominations closed.

Mr McIvor said he had stepped down as candidate due to "personal reasons", however the Tories soon confirmed he had been placed under investigation over his behaviour.

This morning a Conservative Party spokesman confirmed to the Express that he was suspended and removed from the candidates list in June.

They revealed: "After a disciplinary hearing, he was expelled from the Conservative Party on 9th October."

A Reform UK spokesman hit back, saying: ""We believe James McIvor has been the victim of vicious Tory infighting.

"We look forward to announcing many more Councillors joining us from the Tory sinking ship following our letter."