Reform UK looks to build on 2024 General Election result in Lincolnshire
The man who took Reform UK to second place in South Holland and the Deepings is hoping to build on last week’s election results.
Matthew Swainson said he was ‘pleasantly surprised’ to come second in the contest after gaining 10,606 votes - second only to Sir John Hayes, who received 17,462.
Reform is now looking to establish itself as a national force — and has a foothold in the county after Richard Tice took the Boston and Skegness seat in last week’s General Election.
Wiltshire native Mr Swainson, who moved to South Holland 18 months ago, had first stood for Reform in the South Holland District Council elections last year.
He said of the result: “I was pleasantly surprised at the closeness and narrowness of the margin between myself and Sir John. I aimed to secure 10% with a stretch target of 15% but to get 23% from a standing start, as an unknown candidate for a nearly unknown party, it was a very pleasant surprise.
“Sir John and I exchanged civil words and hopefully I have given him some ammunition to go back to Westminster to persuade the Conservative Party what members are looking for.
“I am hoping to build on this going forward. We are planned to continue to get out more around the community and get myself better known and spend a bit more time doing things MPs do and build on this for next time.
“We are looking to to run some candidates in the council elections.”
What do you think? Do you think Reform UK can establish itself in the area? Let us know in the comments below…