Reform UK has suffered another blow in Kirklees as a second councillor has left the party – this time to stand as an independent.

Councillor Susan Maxfield, who was elected to her position as councillor for Liversedge and Gomersal in May, will now sit on the council as an independent.

Coun Maxfield received more than 2,000 votes in the elections earlier ths year.

Her departure from Reform UK comes just a week after Coun Craig Wiles stepped down from his role in the party due to health issues.

Reform group leader Sarah Wood’s ward colleague, Susan Maxfield, has defected to stand as an independent candidate.

A short statement from Reform UK’s leader in Kirklees, Coun Sarah Wood, said Reform UK was elected by residents to “provide strong, effective leadership for Kirklees”.

She said the group would “remain committed” to “working constructively” with all councillors.

Coun Wood’s statment, published on Friday (Jul 3), read: “I can confirm that Coun Susan Maxfield has resigned the Reform UK whip and will now sit as an independent councillor on Kirklees Council.

“Reform UK was elected by residents to provide strong, effective leadership for Kirklees.

"Our priority remains unchanged, and the group remains focused on delivering better services, restoring sound financial management and standing up for the communities we represent.

“We remain committed to working constructively with councillors from across the chamber wherever it is in the best interests of the people of Kirklees.”

Coun Maxfield has been contacted for further comment.