SOMERSET councillor Marcus Barr has joined Reform UK and claims only Nigel Farage’s party has the answers to the biggest problems facing the country.

Cllr Barr was first elected to Wellington Town Council in 2015 as a Conservative member and also served on the now-defunct Somerset West and Taunton district council.

Since 2022, Cllr Barr has represented the Wellington Ward on Somerset County Council where he is now forming a political party grouping with Reform’s Cllr Bente Height.

Cllr Barr, the first Reform UK councillor in Wellington, says the current two party system has completely abandoned the people and that “Reform UK is our last chance”.

He said: "I've joined Reform because our country needs change, and only Reform offers the hope of change. I know from speaking to my residents that people are turning to Reform.

“I've had a lot of people urging me to join officially and I think that by being part of Reform, I can represent people better because I'm part of a bigger movement for change."

The trend of defections to Reform UK is one the party believes will continue to grow, which it says underscores the urgent need for real change in our political system, both locally and nationally.

Cllr Barr added: "I think Labour and the Conservatives have become the same thing – high immigration, high taxes, high energy bills because of net zero. Reform UK stands as our last hope for change. I know that I can better represent my residents from a party that people believe in.”

A Reform Spokesperson said: “We’re delighted Marcus has joined us.

“As a successful businessman and dedicated public servant, Marcus wants to deliver what is best for the people of Somerset.

“We welcome anyone who shares our vision for integrity, accountability, and meaningful change to join us.”