Independent councillor becomes Middlesbrough Reform representative

The news brings the total number of Reform councillors in Middlesbrough to two, as Cllr Cooper joins Councillor Joanne Rush, who won her seat as a Reform candidate in a Nunthorpe by-election back in December. Meanwhile, independent Councillor Joan McTigue is the third Middlesbrough councillor who is a member of Reform UK, according to her register of interests, however she still sits on the council as an independent at this time.

It was reported last year that Cllr Cooper had left the main opposition group on the council – Middlesbrough Independent Councillors Association (MICA) – to sit as an individual independent. The confirmation that Cllr Cooper would sit as a Reform councillor came on the morning of Wednesday January 14, as part of a wider announcement on defections to Reform across the country.

Cllr Cooper, who represents Trimdon ward, said: “I am proud to be joining Reform UK today, marking the start of a new group of Reform UK Middlesbrough borough councillors. After dedicating my life to helping others in the community as a nurse and serving as an independent councillor, I have decided to join the only party that I believe can save Middlesbrough. 

“The town I love and the quality of life for its residents has declined. Drug addiction is rife, difficulties for the elderly are worsening and accessibility for disabled people needs urgent reform. I am excited to join Reform UK to reverse the lack of community spirit and champion the change needed in my town.”

A Reform UK spokesman said: “Christine is a vital member of the Middlesbrough community and we are delighted to welcome her to Reform UK. With her local expertise and passion for change, she is a wonderful addition to our expanding team of councillors.”

Middlesbrough’s existing Reform Cllr Rush reacted to the news on Facebook, saying that she was looking forward to meeting Cllr Cooper and working alongside her in the “best interests of our residents”.