Reform UK Councillors Linked to Far-Right Facebook Group 2026

At least five Reform UK councillors have been members of a Facebook group linked to the far-right group involved in the blockades of Dover and Portsmouth by masked men, according to anti-fascist campaigners. The revelation has sparked internal divisions within Nigel Farage's party over its stance on the Patriot Platform group.

Reform UK Councillors and the Northeast Patriots Facebook Group

The councillors – two from Solihull, two from Gateshead, and one from Kent – were members of the Northeast Patriots Facebook group. Two have left after being approached by the Guardian, while a fifth also said he was no longer a member. The group's front page invites visitors to "join the movement" at the website address for Patriot Platform, the vigilante group set up by Daniel Thomas, a long-term associate of the far-right activist known as Tommy Robinson.

The Northeast Patriots group was established by Mark Thorn, a Tyneside Reform activist whose Facebook page describes him as "Reform UK Representative/Campaigner Gateshead Central & Whickham Constituency". The anti-fascism group Hope Not Hate identified four councillors who have been members of the closed group. In a welcome message for new members, they were tagged by their handle.

Internal Divisions and Farage's Condemnation

There is unease among some Reform members and councillors about Farage's condemnation of Patriot Platform's activities. While Farage has publicly denounced the group, the involvement of party members in associated Facebook groups suggests a disconnect between the leadership and grassroots supporters.

The Patriot Platform has been involved in blockades of Dover and Portsmouth, actions that have been condemned across the political spectrum. The group's activities have raised concerns about far-right infiltration within mainstream political parties.

Implications for Reform UK

The controversy highlights the challenges facing Reform UK as it seeks to broaden its appeal while managing its grassroots base. The party, led by Nigel Farage, has been gaining traction in recent polls, but such associations could undermine its efforts to present itself as a moderate force.

Anti-fascist campaigners argue that these links demonstrate the need for greater scrutiny of political parties' connections to extremist groups. Hope Not Hate has been monitoring the situation and has called on Reform UK to take decisive action.

Key Takeaways

• At least five Reform UK councillors were members of a Facebook group linked to the far-right Patriot Platform.
• The group, Northeast Patriots, was set up by a Reform activist and directs members to the Patriot Platform website.
• Internal divisions within Reform UK are evident, with some members uneasy about Farage's condemnation of the group.
• The controversy could impact Reform UK's public image and electoral prospects.

Comparison of Political Party Responses to Extremism

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