Workers Party gain two Rochdale seats as Labour hold onto council control

Friday, 3 May 2024 20:52

By Adam Clark

Workers Party of Britain have gained two seats in Rochdale, but Labour hold onto council control

Milkstone & Deeplish and Central Rochdale were the wards where George Galloway's party gained.

The Rochdale MP was at the count in Rochdale Leisure Centre this afternoon.

Minaam Ellahi won a majority of 1,099 in Milkstone & Deeplish to Shahid Mohammed of Labour whilst Farooq Ahmed won a majority of 475 in Central Rochdale to Ali Ahmed of Labour.

Speaking after the election, Ellahi said:

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all who came out to vote and stood by us throughout this journey. Your belief in our vision has been the driving force behind our success.

A special acknowledgement goes to our MP, George Galloway, for having faith in me. Also our incredible team for their invaluable guidance and support. Your commitment to our cause has been truly inspiring.

Most importantly, I want to express my gratitude to the residents of Milkstone & Deeplish. Your trust and confidence in me have propelled us forward, and I am deeply honoured to serve as your councillor.

Those were the only two seats that changed hands from the 20 up for election this year.

Aisling Gallacher held onto her Castleton seat for Labour, despite some concern around the town's cycle lanes.

Credit: David Murphy

Liberal Democrats group leader - Andy Kelly - held onto his Milnrow & Newhey seat, keeping 3 seats for his party.

Middleton Independents Party didn't gain any council seats this year but ran close in North Middleton against Labour's Kath Bromfield, missing out by 131 votes.

The party also came close in West Middleton & South Middleton.