Reform councillor on assault charge suspended

Mandy Clare represents Winsford Dene for Reform UK

A Reform councillor due to appear in court on assault charges has been suspended from her job with a Reform MP.

Mandy Clare, who represents Winsford Dene for Reform UK on Cheshire West and Chester Council, was arrested at the town's Pride event on 28 June and subsequently charged with assault and criminal damage.

Ms Clare, of Malpas, was bailed and is due to appear at Crewe Magistrates' Court on 8 August.

The 54-year-old is currently employed in the office of Sarah Pochin, the Reform MP for Runcorn and Helsby, but a spokesman for Mrs Pochin said Clare had been suspended pending the outcome of criminal proceedings.

He said: "On June 29 we were made aware of serious allegations involving a member of staff. She was immediately suspended from her position pending the outcome of the investigation.

"We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards any suggestion of disorderly or inappropriate conduct.

"While we fully respect the right to due process and a fair hearing, it would not be appropriate for the individual to continue in her role at this time."

A statement by Cheshire Police and the Crown Prosecution Service said: "We would like to remind everyone that criminal proceedings against Clare are live and that she has a right to a fair trial.

"It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice ongoing proceedings."