A Conservative council leader has decided to stand for Reform UK in the upcoming local government elections this May, saying he feels "let down" by his party.

Vernon Smith, chairman of Gloucestershire County Council, will run as a Reform candidate in the elections on 1 May after serving more than a decade in office.

He stated that after much reflection, he became disillusioned with the national Conservative Party, prompting his decision to switch allegiance.

The Conservative Party has been contacted for a response.

"I feel the Conservatives have let me down," said Smith, who represents the Tewkesbury East Division.

"They've made statements I fully support on the economy and efficiency, but they haven't followed through," he added.

Smith also highlighted that the creation of a unitary authority could enhance local services.

Additionally, he expressed concerns about rising immigration levels in the UK.

"We're just a small island, and we can't continue accepting migration indefinitely," he said.

He also raised worries about the potential flooding risks posed by new housing developments planned for the "garden city" near Tewkesbury.

While he supports efforts to address climate change, he believes they should not come at the expense of people's well-being.

Councillor Smith is believed to be the only sitting councillor at Shire Hall standing for Reform UK in this year's election.