Mark Wilkinson has resigned as leader of the Reform UK group on Oldham Council and as ward councillor for Failsworth West, triggering a by-election. He announced his decision on social media, citing health reasons.
Councillor Wilkinson was appointed as the group's leader only last week, on September 15, following the resignation of former party leader councillor Lewis Quigg, who had held the role since September 2025. Wilkinson previously served as Reform Oldham's deputy leader.
Health reasons behind decision
Wilkinson detailed diagnoses of serious heart-related issues and said the news followed him having a kidney removed in March. “Coming so soon after having a kidney removed in March, this has inevitably made me take a serious look at my health and my future,” he said. “I have been advised by medical professionals to take things easy and get plenty of rest.”
“After careful consideration, I have therefore made the difficult decision to stand down as Leader of the Reform UK Group and as a councillor for Failsworth,” he added. “This has not been an easy decision. Serving the people of Failsworth and representing them as a councillor has been a privilege, and I am extremely grateful to everyone who has supported me during my time in public service.”
“However, my health has to come first. There are times in life when you have to recognise what is most important, and for me that is now taking care of myself and concentrating on my recovery.”
Party thanks and recent success
Wilkinson said it had been “an honour” to serve the community as an elected representative and thanked his supporters. In a statement on Facebook, the Oldham branch of the party thanked him for his “hard work, dedication and service”. “Most importantly, wishing you good health, strength and happiness for the future,” the statement added. “Take care and look after yourself.”
Wilkinson was first elected to the ward as an independent in the May elections of 2024. Reform Oldham saw widespread success at the May local election, propelling the party's presence from a fringe group to the second biggest on the council.
The announcement follows that of longstanding Oldham councillor and former mayor Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE, who said this week he would not be standing for re-election when voters go to the polls again in 2027. Dr Chauhan was first elected as a Labour councillor for the council ward of Alexandra in 2013. His time as a councillor will now end at the next set of local elections.
