In a notable shift in the British political landscape, Reform UK has named retired Metropolitan Police officer Sean Matthews as the new leader of Lincolnshire County Council. Matthews, who served with the Met for 25 years until his retirement in 2018, will now represent Tattershall Castle. His appointment comes in the wake of Reform UK’s dramatic victory in the council elections held on 1 May, where they clinched 44 of the 77 council seats previously held by the Conservatives. Upon accepting the role, Matthews took a pledge to fulfil the mandate for meaningful change. Councillor Rob Gibson will join Matthews as deputy leader.
Meanwhile, Dame Andrea Jenkyns has broken new ground by becoming the first-ever mayor of Greater Lincolnshire. Matthews lauded the party’s impressive achievements, marking their successful evolution from a start-up to a significant power wielding control over both the council and the new mayoral office. Matthews succeeds Martin Hill, who served as the council leader for the last 20 years. Hill will continue to represent Folkingham Rural, but has decided to step down as the leader of the Tory group, passing the leadership baton to Councillor Richard Davies. This leadership transition will be officially formalised at the full council meeting scheduled for 23 May.
This story is based on original reporting by www.bbc.com.
