Dear Member,

I would like to thank and congratulate all candidates who stood in last week’s elections. Across the UK, and against towering odds, UKIP candidates and members went above and beyond the call of duty, fighting determined and resilient campaigns.

While the results are disappointing, we must remember that UKIP is on a road to recovery and, after years of mismanagement, this process will not happen overnight.

Largely as a result of the Covid pandemic, which has paralysed political debate for the last 14 months, the elections were a victory for the parties of government. This will not last forever. Now is the time to regroup, learn lessons and make the necessary preparations for future elections. We must ensure that UKIP is the patriotic, common sense alternative for working people.

In Wales, UKIP defeated Reform UK in the 14 constituencies fielding a UKIP candidate and in all 5 electoral regions. I would like to thank the UKIP Wales team who have been a true inspiration and will be the base of the party’s future success in Wales. Across the UK, we must encourage people back to UKIP, by showing them we are as determined as ever and here to stay for the long-term.

In London, Dr Peter Gammons ran a superb campaign with limited resources compared to other parties and candidates. I’d like to congratulate Peter for the time, effort and personal expense he put into his mayoral campaign.

A very special thank you to the true party stalwarts, Janice and Donald Mackay in Scotland. UKIP fielded more candidates for Holyrood than in any other Scottish election. Drawing candidates from across the UK, UKIP Scotland showed that we are the party of the British Union and will fight for its preservation for future generations to enjoy and prosper.

I am sure everyone will wish to join me in thanking Pat Mountain. Pat has spent many months recruiting members to stand in the English local elections. It is often a thankless task, but Pat’s efforts ensured that many had the chance to vote UKIP which, without her efforts, would not have been possible.

It was humbling to see the fearless campaigns of UKIP’s local election candidates. Special mention to some of our youngest candidates, Jordan Gaskell and Jack Thomson. Their campaigns showed maturity beyond their years and a heartfelt commitment to their local communities – a demonstration to us all that UKIP has a bright and positive future.

I cannot mention everyone, but to all who played their part – thank you!

In the weeks ahead, I look forward to working with you all as we continue UKIP’s battle to put the interests of Britain, and its people, before party politics.