Reform UK brought together around 190 members and guests at a Somerset branches meeting on Sunday. The event, organised by the Taunton and Wellington branch, focused on the financial challenges facing Somerset Council and included speeches from national figures.

Linden Kemkaren, Reform leader of Kent County Council, spoke about the party's recent election gains in Kent, where 57 councillors were elected this year. She said the group had established a financial tracking team to monitor contracts and commitments.

Former minister Ann Widdecombe also addressed the gathering, telling attendees that in her view a general election before 2029 was unlikely, giving the party time to strengthen its local branches.

Elections for Somerset Council are scheduled to take place in 2027.

More local stories:

• Somerset Council warns of deep cuts after £5.4m overspend
• "No party politics here" – Shepton councillors wanted for people, not parties

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