Derbyshire ex-Labour councillor follows Reform defectors to new far-right party
A member of Amber Valley Borough Council who was elected as a Labour candidate in 2023 has joined new far-right challenger party Advance UK, following in the footsteps of several ex-Reform UK representatives who made the move earlier this month.
Steven Bower, who represents the Heanor West & Loscoe ward, announced his new affiliation on Monday, January 19, the day before two local by-elections where Advance UK is standing its first ever electoral candidates.
Cllr Bower said: “The reason I joined Advance UK is straightforward. Their principles are clear, and unlike the old parties, they actually act on them.
“Advance UK offers something different — honesty with residents and a focus on getting the job done rather than chasing headlines. Since stepping away from party politics that no longer reflected my values, I’ve been able to represent people properly, without spin or compromise.
“I’m looking forward to working with Advance UK colleagues and contributing to a party that is growing locally because it puts truth, accountability, and delivery first. Less noise. More action.”
Among those new colleagues is Heanor Town Councillor Alex Stevenson, who Cllr Bower will know from their second elected roles on Aldercar & Langley Mill Parish Council, and who is running for election to Derbyshire County Council and Amber Valley Borough Council on Tuesday having previously represented Reform UK and the Conservatives.
Also joining them is Lisa Turner, a member of Denby Parish Council, who also declared her Advance UK affiliation on Monday.
Cllr Turner said: “I am proud to have joined Advance UK, a party that is built on truth, principle, and conviction. I believe deeply in what Advance UK stands for and in its commitment to serving the British people honestly.
“My life experiences — in public service, in business, and through my family background — have taught me the importance of understanding communities as they really are. I value straight talking, integrity, and standing by one’s beliefs, even when it is difficult.
“That is why I chose Advance UK. I will not abandon my principles to suit a party line, and I will always speak honestly on behalf of the people I represent. Advance UK gives me the freedom to do exactly that, and I am proud to support its growing presence in Amber Valley.”
As previously reported, Cllr Stevenson was one of six Derbyshire representatives who quit Reform UK and shifted further right at the start of January.
Advance UK only registered with the Electoral Commission in December 2025, having formerly been known as the Integrity Party.
While it describes its own ideological position as “upholding the UK’s Christian constitution, protecting freedom, restoring democracy, and ensuring equality under the law,” the party has well documented links to far-right organisations.
Party leader Ben Habib said: “I am delighted to welcome Steven Bower and Lisa Turner to Advance UK. Both have demonstrated integrity, courage, and a clear commitment to serving their communities honestly.
“They join a growing number of councillors who have decided that principles matter. Advance UK exists to support representatives who are prepared to stand up, speak plainly, and deliver real results for the people they serve.”