Ex-Tory and Labour councillor Richard Bingley joins Reform for May elections

"Bingley resigned after the authority cut down more than 100 mature trees in the centre of the city under the cover of darkness, having put fencing around them and deployed security guards. He signed the order to make way for a 12m regeneration scheme in the city centre despite vehement opposition from campaigners, prompting an outcry and national headlines."

"Bingley might not be a full-time politician he is also a security and terrorism expert, spending time working at Buckingham University but he is definitely something of a committed hobbyist."

"He first emerged on Thurrock council in 1997, serving a term as a Conservative. In 2006, he was back on the same council, but in another ward and representing another party Labour."

"In 2014 came an ideological about-turn and Bingley's first liaison with Nigel Farage he changed allegiance to Ukip, speaking at the party's annual conference."

Richard Bingley has had a varied political career, starting as a Tory councillor, then switching to Labour, and later joining Ukip before returning to the Conservatives. His tenure ended controversially after he authorized the removal of over 100 trees in Plymouth, leading to his resignation. Bingley, who is also a security and terrorism expert, has been involved in politics since 1997 and has held various roles, including Labour's press officer. He is now running for Thurrock council with Reform, marking a significant shift in his political journey.

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