Councillors quit Horwich and Blackrod First Independents

Cllr Charlotte Moncado-Sears, of Horwich North, and Cllr Samantha Williamson, both left the Horwich and Blackrod First Independents after a meeting last week.

Both will now continue to sit as independents but  this could yet have wider implications for the balance of power at Bolton Council.

Cllr Moncado-Sears said: “I took the decision to leave the party last week due to internal differences.

“That is all I am prepared to say at this stage but I will continue to work with residents.

Cllr Moncado-Sears (Image: Bolton Council)

“I’m still going to 100 per cent represent them, they are not going to suffer just because I’m now independent.”

Both Cllr Moncado-Sears and Cllr Williamson will also continue to sit on Horwich Town Council representing Vale ward and Church ward.

Cllr Williamson said: “I left the party because I felt that the party did not treat all members equally, especially treating people with different points of view equally.

Cllr Samantha Williamson (Image: Bolton Council)

“I will be continuing as an independent for as a long as the public wishes and would like to thank them for their support on a number of issues, particularly on the vapes issue.”

The pair’s decision to leave HBFI comes around five months after Cllr Ryan Bamforth's departure from the party.

Cllr Bamforth , of Horwich North, has continued to represent the area as an independent since then.

This has brought the group’s representation on Bolton Council down from six, making it the joint third biggest at the time, to just three.

The ruling Labour group does not have an overall majority and earlier this year depended on HBFI to pass its budget. 

But HBFI still has 15 councillors left on Horwich Town Council.

A HBFI spokesperson said: “As a community led organisation it’s important that HBFI stays true to our core values and constitution. 

“Whilst we do not have a party whip there is still a requirement to adhere to our constitution and engage with our community in a progressive and constructive way to deliver investment, improvement, and a sense of community pride through events. 

“Unfortunately following a Town Council meeting it became apparent that several councillors were at odds with this commitment.  

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“Following a party meeting on Friday 8 we have accepted the resignations of Cllr Williamson and Cllr Moncado-Sears.

“Whilst this is regrettable, we feel this is the best outcome for all involved. 

“They have made it their intention to serve out their terms as independent councillors at Bolton and we hope for them the very best in their choices. 

“HBFI will work constructively with all opposition councillors for the benefit of our community.

“In the meantime, HBFI can now focus on the projects we have in the pipeline and our party with 15 councillors remain committed to delivering for you in our community.”