Lewis Quigg steps down as Oldham Reform UK leader days after saying he was still in charge

Failsworth West councillor Mark Wilkinson has been elected as his replacement, with Councillor Gary Tarbuck becoming deputy leader.

Councillor Quigg founded the Reform UK group on Oldham Council and had led it during a period in which it grew from three councillors to 16.

Announcing his resignation, the Royton North councillor said the past few months had been “intensely demanding and all-consuming”.

He said: “Having served as the founding leader of the Reform UK Group on Oldham Council for the past year, I have seen the party grow from three councillors to sixteen in less than twelve months. Some of the strongest results across Greater Manchester on 7 May 2026 came from Oldham.

“Reform UK was founded to end the establishment stitch-up and give a voice to the voiceless.

“However, the past few months have been intensely demanding and all-consuming. I therefore made the difficult decision to resign.

“I am content with my decision to stand down given the decision to do so was mine alone.

“I will continue to serve as ward councillor for Royton North and will support Reform UK in any way I can.

“I wish my successor every success as they take on the challenge of fixing this broken borough.”

Councillor Wilkinson, who had been deputy leader of the group, was elected as its new leader following Quigg’s resignation.

He said: “I would like to thank Lewis for the work he has undertaken in leading the Reform UK Group on Oldham Council.

“Lewis has played an instrumental role in establishing and building the Reform UK Group from the ground up. Under his leadership, the Group has grown from just three councillors to sixteen, achieved some of the strongest election results for Reform UK anywhere in Greater Manchester, and established itself as a powerful voice for residents who wanted change at Oldham Council.

“His dedication, hard work and commitment have helped lay strong foundations for the future success of Reform UK in Oldham, and on behalf of the entire Group I would like to place on record our sincere thanks for his service.

“I fully understand and respect his decision to step down, and I am pleased that he will continue to serve the residents of Royton North and remain an important member of our team.”

Councillor Wilkinson said his priorities would include council finances, value for money, services and community safety.

He added: “I am honoured to take on the leadership role and grateful to my fellow Reform councillors for their confidence and support.

“My priority will be to ensure that Reform UK continues to provide a strong, effective and accountable voice for residents across the borough.”

Councillor Quigg will remain a Reform UK councillor for Royton North.