Fresh chaos on Reform-run Staffordshire County Council as it gets a FOURTH leader since last year's local elections

A Reform UK-run council was today plunged into fresh chaos following another shock resignation.

The leader of Staffordshire County Council has quit to leave the local authority looking for a fourth chief since last year's local elections.

Reform won a majority on the council in May 2025 as Nigel Farage's party took the local authority from the Tories. 

The victory was among a slew of breakthroughs for Reform across local government in England. 

But Staffordshire County Council has since experienced months of turbulence due to numerous changes of leadership.

Councillor Martin Murray on Tuesday announced he is the latest council leader to quit, although he did not give a specific reason for doing so.

In a statement posted on X he confirmed he is stepping down as both leader of the council and leader of its Reform group.

Mr Murray said he had 'concluded it is in the best interests of Staffordshire, our residents and this county council for me to step down'. 

'This was a difficult decision, but the interests of Staffordshire, the council and those we serve must come first,' added Mr Murray.

'I do so with a clear conscience and immense pride in what we achieved together.'

Ian Cooper was the first Reform leader of Staffordshire County Council to resign in December last year.

He quit just days after his party membership was revoked over allegations he posted racist comments on social media.

Chris Large was subsequently elected the council's new leader at the beginning of this year, but quit shortly afterwards.

He had previously come under fire after allegedly racist activity was seen on a TikTok account bearing his name.

At the time, Mr Large denied responsibility for the activity, saying a number of people had access to the account, which has since been deleted.

Mr Murray then formally took over as council leader in March this year.

Hayley Coles, who was previously deputy leader, will now become acting leader following Mr Murray's resignation.

She said: 'I feel privileged to have been trusted to lead the council into this new chapter.

'My focus now is to drive forward the delivery of our plans for the county.

'I intend to advocate strongly for our residents and businesses, ensure people get effective and efficient council services and champion Staffordshire as the wonderful county it is.

'I want to thank Councillor Murray for his leadership thus far and the passion he has shown.'

Mr Murray will continue to represent Cannock Town as a Reform councillor.

A formal selection of leader and deputy leader will be held at a meeting of the full council on 10 December.