Late Reform candidate takes seat as independent surge and Labour withdrawal shape contest

REFORM UK candidate Scott Thorley has won the Hakin by-election, securing 179 votes in a contest marked by low turnout, a late candidate withdrawal, and a strong showing from an independent challenger.

A total of 661 votes were cast, representing a turnout of 32.7%, with 271 of those votes submitted by post.

Thorley, who sits as a Haverfordwest town councillor and works as a retail manager on the Withybush Industrial Estate, was a late and reportedly reluctant addition to the ballot. Not being from Milford Haven, his candidacy raised some eyebrows locally.

However, he emerged victorious on the night and appeared visibly both surprised and excited by the result.

Speaking to The Herald shortly after the count, in his first video interview as county councillor, Thorley said he was “passionate about serving the community” and pledged to ensure that Milford Haven and Hakin receive a fairer share of council resources.

He said: “We need to start with the basics – fixing potholes and broken bus shelters. It’s clear Hakin has been neglected.”

Thorley already serves as a Haverfordwest town councillor and indicated he intends to continue in both roles.

He said he would be able to “get on with doing both jobs”.

The Herald understands this is the first time a councillor has represented communities in both Haverfordwest and Milford Haven at the same time.

Strong showing for independent

Independent candidate Lee James Bridges delivered one of the standout performances of the election, finishing with 106 votes. A sitting Milford Haven town councillor, Bridges ran a highly visible and energetic campaign, focusing strongly on local issues.

Without the backing of a political party, his result is likely to be seen as a significant achievement and suggests he may play an ongoing role in local politics.

Speaking after the count, Lee Bridges said: “I just want to say a sincere thank you to everyone who supported me during this campaign. It’s been a privilege to meet so many residents across the Hakin ward and hear your views.

“Of course I’m disappointed with the result, but I’m proud that I stood up, gave it everything, and ran a positive campaign focused on representing local people.

“What I will say is that it is really hard to put yourself out there and try to do this, as it can be very difficult to see people write unkind things about you on social media. Anybody who is willing to stand up has my respect.

“Congratulations to the winning candidate, Scott Thorley representing Reform, and I wish him the very best in representing the people of Hakin at County Hall.”

Heavy campaigning fails to boost turnout

The election saw an intense level of doorstep campaigning, with candidates from across the political spectrum carrying out extensive door knocking in the ward.

However, the level of canvassing appears to have had a mixed reception among residents, with some reportedly placing notes on their doors reading “no politicians” in an effort to deter campaigners.

Despite the significant effort on the ground and what many viewed as a tightly contested race, turnout remained relatively low at just 32.7%.

Limited campaign still delivers strong result

Brian Taylor, representing the Welsh Conservative Party, secured 144 votes. A well-known local businessman and familiar name in Hakin, Taylor’s campaign was notably limited, as he was on holiday during some of the election period and did not attend the count.

Despite this, he still achieved a strong second-place finish, reflecting his established presence in the community.

With just 35 votes separating him from the winner, several people at the count suggested that, with a more visible campaign, Taylor would have taken the seat.

Labour candidate withdraws

The election was also overshadowed by the withdrawal of Welsh Labour candidate Nicola Catherine Harteveld. She pulled out of the race after reporting that her son had been subjected to verbal abuse following her candidacy, with police involvement.

Despite her withdrawal, Harteveld still received 27 votes – more than independent candidate Derrick Abbott, who polled 11.

The unusual situation left Welsh Labour, for a short time, unknowingly campaigning in the area without an active candidate, with senior figures including the First Minister seen canvassing locally during the campaign period.

Elsewhere, Sam Booth of the Wales Green Party received 85 votes, Sam Warden of the Welsh Liberal Democrats secured 57, and independent Duncan Edwards polled 52.

The result highlights both the continued fragmentation of local politics and the potential for independent candidates to make a significant impact, particularly where strong community ties and grassroots campaigning are evident.

With turnout relatively low and a high proportion of postal votes, the election also raises ongoing questions about engagement in local democracy.

Efficient count praised

Pembrokeshire County Council staff were praised for running an efficient and accurate count on the night.

The Returning Officer was Will Bramble, Chief Executive of Pembrokeshire County Council.

Full result:

Derrick Abbott (Independent) – 11
Sam Booth (Wales Green Party) – 85
Lee James Bridges (Independent) – 106
Duncan Edwards (Independent) – 52
Nicola Catherine Harteveld (Welsh Labour) – 27
Brian Taylor (Welsh Conservative Party) – 144
Scott Thorley (Reform UK) – 179
Sam Warden (Welsh Liberal Democrats) – 57