Reform UK picks ex-police officer to lead council

Reform UK has chosen a retired police officer to lead Lincolnshire County Council.

Councillor Sean Matthews, who represents Tattershall Castle, spent 25 years in the Metropolitan Police before leaving in 2018.

His party took control of the council from the Conservatives after winning 44 of the 77 seats in an election on 1 May.

Matthews said it was "an honour and a privilege" to become the new leader and pledged to deliver on "a clear mandate for serious change".

Councillor Rob Gibson will serve as Matthews' deputy.

Reform UK enjoyed a double success in the elections, with Dame Andrea Jenkyns winning the race to become the first mayor of Greater Lincolnshire.

"What we have achieved here is incredible. From a standing start we now have full control of the council and an excellent Greater Lincolnshire mayor," said Matthews.

He will take over as leader of the council from the Conservatives' Martin Hill, who led the authority for 20 years.

Hill, who retained his Folkingham Rural seat, has stepped down as Tory group leader in favour of Councillor Richard Davies, citing the need for "fresh blood".

The full council will meet on 23 May.