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THE 92-YEAR-OLD WAS SPEAKING AFTER THE FIRST ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AUTHORITY SINCE REFORM UK WON 65 OUT OF 126 SEATS IN THE LOCAL ELECTION BILL EDGAR, LOCAL DEMOCRACY REPORTER 17:54, 25 May
2025 At the recent annual council meeting at County Hall, former Newcastle United owner Sir John Hall celebrated the significant success of the new Reform leadership in Durham County
Council, referring to their election as a "moment in history". The 92-year-old attended Wednesday's annual council meeting at County Hall, where the party elected Andrew
Husband as new leader. Reflecting on Reform's impressive gain of 65 seats in the local elections earlier this month, Sir John described the triumph as an "exciting time" for
the organisation. "This is a moment in history," he said. "The people's party has won a tremendous victory in the North East. It's time for change and I'm
supporting Reform because, looking at all the other parties, they are the only one that will help me save my nation state." Despite being a longtime Conservative donor, having
contributed in excess of £500,000 over the years, Sir John publicly rebuked the Tories last year, feeling "let down" and candidly telling them to "get stuffed". His
endorsement of Reform UK first came to light at a rally in Houghton-le-Spring, June 2024. Post his financial backing to Reform UK, Sir John resonated with the party's agenda. He shared
his perspective: "I'm an old Englishman, and I see changes coming in destroying what I believe is my nation state. We have got a long way to go but it's an unbelievable
change, taking over Durham County Council, which in my day was solid red." OUR COUNTY DURHAM LIVE NEWSLETTER IS FREE. YOU CAN SIGN UP TO RECEIVE IT HERE. It will keep you up to date
with all the latest breaking news and top stories from in and around County Durham. Article continues below Sir John, the property tycoon renowned for developing the Metrocentre, has been an
influential personality in the North East for many years. Addressing the press outside Durham County Hall, he shared his aspirations for the Reform movement to expand its influence across
the region. He went on to say: "You need power to make change, and this is just the start. What I find talking to all of the people a part of Reform is they are so enthusiastic, they
want to see change. We have got a majority and I'm sure things will happen. "Durham is just one part of the North East and the bigger problem is how we organise the North East for
the future. I want to see a regional Reform structure. It's an exciting time, and even at 92, I'm delighted to be a part of it."