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Reform-run Staffordshire County Council turns to its FOURTH leader since May 2025 after the latest boss quits without explanation

Martin Murray, who resigned as Staffordshire County Council leader on Tuesday without explanation, becoming the third Reform leader to quit the authority since December 2025.
Martin Murray, who resigned as Staffordshire County Council leader on Tuesday without explanation, becoming the third Reform leader to quit the authority since December 2025.

Martin Murray resigned as leader of Staffordshire County Council on Tuesday without giving a specific reason, becoming the third Reform leader to quit the authority since December 2025. Deputy leader Hayley Coles has taken over with immediate effect, with Sean Bagguley appointed acting deputy, and Coles is expected to be formally confirmed as leader in December.

The chaos began when first leader Ian Cooper was expelled from Reform in December 2025 over undisclosed racist social media posts.

Chris Large lasted only days as his replacement before stepping down after a family bereavement, never formally taking the council leadership.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Labour MP Adam Jogee called it 'another example of the chaos that dominates county hall.'

MoreDaily Mail NewsFresh chaos on Reform-run Staffordshire County Council as it gets a FOURTH leader since last year's local electionsBBC News - EnglandReform UK leader of Staffordshire County Council steps downA Little Bit of StoneFourth Reform group leader in 18 months as Hayley Coles takes charge at Staffordshire County Council - A Little Bit of StoneYahooReform UK leader of county council steps down - Yahoo
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