Reform UK Bury has selected George Martin to stand in the Tottington ward by election next month. The party said he was chosen after reviewing several applicants.
Mr Martin has worked in management roles in product software development and has experience in business analytics and financial management spanning more than a decade.
The party said he lives locally with his partner and young son and has a strong interest in environmental policy and the protection of greenbelt land.
Reform UK Bury said its local councillors oppose the Places for Everyone development plan, which proposes housing and employment sites across Greater Manchester. The party said Mr Martin would continue that opposition if elected.
Councillor Jack Rydeheard, leader of the Reform UK group on Bury Council, said, “I’m really happy that George has put himself forward and been selected. I can’t imagine a better candidate to stand for us as he has the knowledge, passion and stake in our community to be a brilliant councillor.”
“Together, if elected, your Reform team will fight for your interests and be unrelenting in holding this disastrous Labour administration to account. George’s background puts both himself and Reform UK in Bury in a brilliant position to be able to do this and I look forward to sitting beside George in the council chamber.”
Mr Martin said he had not previously been involved in politics but decided to stand because he cares about the local area.
“I am proud to put myself forward, to do what I can to improve where we all live. I moved to the area nearly a decade ago with my partner and since then, it has truly become our home,” he said.
“We have now started our family here and are raising our two-year-old son in the community. Being a resident and parent locally means that I have a real understanding of the issues that affect us all, from childcare and schools to the greenbelt, parks and local services.”
“I have never been involved in politics before, but I’ve put myself forward this time because I care deeply about our area and its future. I am committed to helping make where we live an even better place to live, work and raise a family and will always represent you with honesty, empathy and dedication.”
Reform UK Bury said it plans to announce candidates for all seventeen wards ahead of the local elections scheduled for May 2026.
From Greater Manchester to Downing Street? Burnham's next move divides voters
Restore Britain names Marlon West as candidate for Greater Manchester mayoral by election
Rochdale MP backs Andy Burnham for Labour leadership after Keir Starmer resignation
Andy Burnham enters Labour leadership contest following Keir Starmer resignation
Parklife’s new Panorama Stage is winning over festival goers at Heaton Park
How many of Parklife’s biggest Sunday artists do you know
St Joseph’s RC Primary School in Heywood opens new library after community fundraising effort
In Photos as Parklife opens with packed crowds, surprise appearances and sunshine at Heaton Park
Aitch sparks huge reaction with surprise Parklife appearance with fellow artist Bou
Skepta draws huge crowd with standout Parklife performance
Coachella inspired fashion takes centre stage at Parklife
Sammy Virji keeps Parklife moving as thousands pack The Valley stage
