Horsham councillor joins Reform

Thursday, 15 January 2026 05:00

By Karen Dunn, Local Democracy Reporter @V2RadioSussex

A former Horsham Conservative councillor has joined Reform UK.

Tong Hogben, who represents Colgate & Rusper, quit the Tories last year and has been serving as an Independent councillor on the district council since then.

He is now the authority’s first Reform councillor.

Mr Hogben said: “After spending 10 years serving Horsham District council for the Conservative Party, it is clear to me that they are no longer a credible force.

“The Tories have consistently failed to deliver on their promises – immigration remains uncontrolled, Brexit opportunities have been squandered and leadership has lacked clarity and conviction.

“Reform UK, by contrast, offers a clear, principled direction and a stronger opposition to Labour. For these reasons, I am proud to be joining Reform UK and deliver the necessary change Horsham needs.”

Horsham District Council is currently controlled by the Liberal Democrats.

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