Fleet councillor Paul Barnes is new leader of South Holland Independents

The new leader of the opposition on South Holland District Council has vowed to continue to work for the benefit of the community.

Fleet councillor Paul Barnes has taken over the reins of South Holland Independents from Coun Rob Gibson who has now crossed the floor to join Reform UK.

Coun Barnes, who is also chairman of Fleet Parish Council, was among the surge of independent councillors to win seats in the last district council election in 2023 and has developed as an outspoken member of the authority.

He has now wished Coun Gibson along with councillors Manzur Hasan, Jane King, Ingrid Sheard and Thomas Sneath well following their decision to join Nigel Farage’s party.

Coun Barnes said: “It is a shame as we have worked very closely for the last two years. South Holland Independents made their mark and people haven’t changed and will carry on doing their best for their community.They feel that is better to do that with Reform and I respect their decision.

“South Holland Independents lives on as the majority opposition. We will work closely with our colleagues in the right way.

“Nothing changes we continue to work for the good of the community.”

Coun Barnes has also confirmed that he will be standing as an independent in the forthcoming Lincolnshire County Council elections.