Nottinghamshire doctor becomes first Reform county councillor after being expelled
A Nottinghamshire doctor has become Reform's first county councillor after he was expelled from the Conservative party. Dr John Doddy, who represents the Stapleford and Broxtowe Central division at Nottinghamshire County Council, has joined Reform UK.
Dr Doddy was formerly part of the Conservative Party, but was expelled in July 2024 after deciding to stand against incumbent Tory MP Darren Henry in last year's General Election. Both lost out to Labour's Juliet Campbell, with Dr Doddy continuing to be part of the county council as an independent councillor.
Dr Doddy, announcing his decision to join Reform on Thursday, January 9, said: “The Reform Party gives us all a new opportunity in politics, where we can move away from the two-party, one ethos current political model, which is to over promise and under deliver.
"Reform UK provides a blank canvas to reimagine public health, address social care for an aging population, and restructure a struggling NHS that was once regarded as the best in the world.
“Having read the Reform Party contract, I strongly believe it is deliverable and will make a better future for all of our children and communities. The Reform Party has a genuine commitment to serving the nation and doing best for its people. That is why I have joined Reform UK.”
Mr Doddy received 1,034 votes as an independent candidate in July 2024's General Election, in comparison to defeated Tory MP Darren Henry's 11,158, and the 8,402 votes that Reform UK's candidate Joseph Oakley received.
The medic, who was first elected as a county councillor in 2012, previously served as the chairman of its health and wellbeing board. Reform UK said Dr Doddy would act as a spokesperson for its health and social care policy.
Reform UK's chairman Zia Yusuf said: “This is a clear reminder that Reform UK is the party for those who believe politicians and governments must work for the people—not for their own interests.
“We welcome anyone who shares our vision for integrity, accountability, and meaningful change to join us. We are thrilled to welcome a true patriot and committed public servant into our ranks.”