Reform to face off against Labour in bid to dethrone Tories in Wales by-election

WATCH NOW: Prime Minister Sir Keir Sramer acknowledges record Labour losses in local elections

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GB NEWS

Fintan Starkey

By Fintan Starkey


Published: 27/05/2026

- 13:30

Reform is coming off a record-breaking local election period

Reform is set to face off with Labour in a bid to dethrone the Conservatives in Wales.

There is only one by-election in the UK this week, with the Fairwood ward in Swansea up for grabs.


The election has been called after the previously elected member died.

The seat was last up for election in 2022, and saw a Conservative victory, followed closely by Labour, with the Greens and the Liberal Democrats.

Six candidates are set to do battle for the seat tomorrow, with two independent candidates fighting against the major parties.

Paul Dennis and Matthew Alan Ward are standing as independent candidates, with Nigel Evans representing Labour.

Beth Rowe is standing for the Liberal Democrats, with David William Helliwell hoping to maintain the seat for the Tories.

Stephen Taylor is looking to shake things up in the constituency with Reform standing for the first time.

Sir Keir Starmer, Nigel Farage

Labour and Reform are set to do battle in a Welsh by-election just weeks after polar opposite local elections for the parties

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GETTY

Reform UK Wales took major success during the May 7 elections, coming second in seat numbers to Plaid Cymru.

Francesca O’Brien, a member of the Senedd, has been out campaigning for Mr Taylor and has taken to social media to offer her support.

She said: “This Thursday we have the by-election for Fairwood and Stephen needs your vote.

“Stephen, a veteran and businessman, is ready to be your voice in Swansea Council. The system needs shaking up.

Francesca O\u2019Brien campaigning with Stephen Taylor

Reform UK Wales took major success during the May 7 elections, coming second in seat numbers to Plaid Cymru

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X/FRANCESCA O'BRIEN

“A hardworking businessman, family man and veteran, who would work tirelessly for the community and would be a fantastic local councillor.”

The by-election comes fast on the heels of the May 7 elections, where Labour suffered historic losses, and lost control of Wales for the first time in a century.

Labour leader and First Minister Eluned Morgan lost her seat and was forced to resign.

The election tomorrow could see another gain for Reform as they are coming off their record success in Wales.

The full list of candidates for Fairwood (Swansea) is as follows:

  • Paul Dennis - Independent
  • Nigel Evans - Labour
  • David William Helliwell - Conservative and Unionist Party
  • Beth Rowe - Liberal Democrats
  • Stephen Taylor - Reform UK
  • Matthew Alan Ward - Independent