Former Stoke City forward Graham Shaw has been elected as a councillor for the Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, representing Reform UK. The 58-year-old, who made over 300 appearances in the Football League for clubs including Stoke City, Preston North End, and Rochdale, secured his seat in last week's local elections.
Reform's Success in Local Elections
Reform UK achieved significant gains in the recent local elections, with party leader Nigel Farage describing the results as a monumental victory. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is reportedly under pressure as his Labour party faced setbacks. Shaw's win is part of a broader trend: Reform has gained over 1,400 seats across the country, a dramatic increase from just two seats four years ago.
Shaw's Football Career
Shaw began his football career at Stoke City as a teenager, signing a professional deal and making over 100 appearances for the club. He left in 1989 to join Preston North End, but returned to Stoke three years later. After a brief loan spell at Plymouth Argyle, he moved to Rochdale in 1995, retiring from playing the following year.
Transition to Law
Following his retirement, Shaw considered a coaching career but instead pursued a degree in criminal law at Staffordshire University, supported by the PFA's education fund. He qualified as a criminal lawyer and worked in Stoke and Newcastle as a commercial sports solicitor.
Speaking to the BBC, Shaw said he had convinced local residents to give him a chance through discussions and expressed his desire to restore pride in the town of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
