Former Reform UK candidate speaks out on his replacement

Richard Lines, who was the prospective parliamentary candidate in South Norfolk, quietly stepped out of the race following his selection earlier this year. 

The seat will instead be contended by Chris Harrison, who is standing alongside nine other Reform UK candidates in Norfolk and Waveney.

Mr Lines, a property developer, has now spoken out on the reason for his replacement - which made him one of more than 100 Reform UK candidates who have been swapped or sacked since January.

He said: "I decided to step down from the Reform party due to pressing family and work commitments which meant I was unable to devote my full energy into a political campaign.

"I wish the new candidate and the Reform party continuing success in the forthcoming general election."

Richard Lines (second from left), pictured alongside his fellow candidates in March (Image: Reform UK)

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Reform UK declined to comment further on the reasons behind Mr Lines' replacement. 

Its candidates in Norfolk are Chris Harrison (South Norfolk), Eric Masters (Broadland and Fakenham), Rupert Lowe (Great Yarmouth), Kabeer Kher (Mid Norfolk), Jason Patchett (North Norfolk), Phil Walton (North West Norfolk), Nick Taylor (Norwich North), Graham Burton (Norwich South), Toby McKenzie (South West Norfolk) and Scott Huggins (Waveney Valley).