Councillors quit Reform UK after suspensions

Two Reform UK councillors in Leeds have resigned from the party after they were suspended pending an internal investigation.

David Dresser, who represents Killingbeck and Seacroft, and Paula-Jane Thackray, of Cross Gates and Whinmoor, announced they were forming a new political group called Leeds First Independents.

Leeds City Council website now lists Thackray as leader of Leeds First Independents, with Dresser as deputy leader and whip.

A Reform spokesperson confirmed that Dresser and Thackray had been suspended pending an inquiry, but did not disclose the reason for their suspension.

In a social media statement, Dresser said it was with "great regret" that the pair had resigned from Reform, before adding that they remained committed to their residents and wards.

The BBC has approached both councillors and the leader of the council's Reform UK group, Ryan Taylor, for further comment.

The development comes another Reform councillor, William Shaw, announced his departure from the party in Doncaster to sit as an independent.

Shaw, who represents Conisbrough, said his decision was linked to the politically neutral positions he now holds through his council work.

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