Introducing Daniel Matchett: A Proven Voice for Change for Rossendale and Darwen

We’re proud to introduce Daniel Matchett, Reform UK’s prospective candidate for Blackburn South & Lower Darwen in the Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council elections on May 7th, 2026.

Daniel is no stranger to standing up for his community. As a former Reform UK Parliamentary Candidate in the 2024 General Election and current Chairman of Reform UK Rossendale and Darwen and spokesperson since 2022, he has already demonstrated his commitment to delivering real change. Alongside this, he is proud to serve as a Lancashire County Councillor for Whitworth & Bacup and holds a key leadership role as Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, bringing with him the experience and insight needed to get things done.

But what truly sets Daniel apart is not just his experience...it’s his perspective.

“In my view, the Conservatives and Labour have both had their chance. I once voted Labour, then Conservative in 2019, but today I stand with Reform UK. My politics haven’t changed...it’s the parties that have changed.”

Daniel pictured with his sister and Deputy Leader of Reform UK Richard Tice. Photography Credit: MW Media

Daniel represents a growing number of people who feel left behind by the traditional parties. His politics are rooted in common sense, fairness, accountability and putting local people first. He’s not afraid to say what many are thinking:

“We are on the cusp of a political shift. Be part of it. Vote for a party that stands for common-sense principles. That’s what Rossendale and Darwen want, so vote Reform UK. Believe me when I say there are more of you than you think...you’re only seeing the tip of the iceberg. It’s time for something different. This will be one of the most interesting local elections we’ve seen in years.”

A Candidate Who Understands What’s Coming

This election comes at a critical moment. With Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) on the horizon, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Lancashire County Council faces abolition and integration into a larger combined authority.

Daniel is clear about both the risks and the opportunity this presents:

“There are significant changes ahead with Local Government Reorganisation. Under these plans, Blackburn with Darwen Council would be abolished and absorbed into a larger combined county authority. If that happens, towns across East Lancashire, including Whitworth, Bacup, Darwen and Blackburn, could be governed together within a single authority in just a couple of years.”

Reform UK opposes this move, but Daniel recognises the reality. If these changes go ahead, strong representation will be more important than ever.

“We must ensure we have as much representation as possible throughout the LGR process. I am in a unique position to help with that. I live in Darwen, proudly represent Whitworth and Bacup at county level and work across East Lancashire through my role on Lancashire County Council. Rossendale and Darwen must have a strong voice”

The Lancashire Reform Cabinet, working together to deliver common-sense leadership and real change for communities across the county.

This is where Daniel stands apart from other candidates. His existing role on the cabinet at Lancashire County Council and across multiple communities means he is already building the connections that will be essential in a reorganised system.

“That’s why I believe it makes sense to start building stronger links across our neighbouring communities now.”

A Unique Opportunity for Representation

This election is about more than just choosing a borough councillor, it’s about preparing for the future of local governance in East Lancashire.

Daniel offers something different:

• A clear, consistent political vision

• Proven experience in elected office

• A unique position bridging local and county-level decision making

• And a determination to ensure Rossendale and Darwen has a strong voice during a time of major change

Be Part of the Change

Daniel Matchett is already standing up for our community in Rossendale and now has the opportunity to be a strong voice for Darwen. He’s ready to challenge the status quo, bring back common-sense politics and ensure that both Rossendale and Darwen are properly represented.

This May, you have a choice.

Join Daniel. Be part of the change. Vote Reform UK.