Reform select leader on Hartlepool Council

The Reform UK group on Hartlepool Council has selected a new leader after the party secured more seats on the authority than anyone else in the local election.

Graham Harrison, 54, will head the 15-strong group with Mike Young as his deputy after Reform UK won all 12 seats up for election.

Harrison, who represents Burn Valley Ward, said he wanted to take the town in "a positive direction".

A council meeting on 21 May will see key positions confirmed for the coming year including leader of the council, deputy leader and ceremonial mayor.

Harrison said he was "truly humbled" to be elected by voters and by his fellow councillors who "placed their trust" in him.

"It's a responsibility I take seriously, and I won't let them, or the residents who sent us all to the council down," he added.

He said: "I'll make sure this council works for the people of our town and every councillor in our group has the clear direction and solid support they need to deliver real progress for Hartlepool."

There are now 15 Reform councillors in Hartlepool, with 14 Labour and seven Independents.

Negotiations will have to take place to decide who will lead the council .

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