'No regrets' for Reform mayor Luke Campbell

Hull and East Yorkshire mayor Luke Campbell at his office

Hull and East Yorkshire mayor Luke Campbell says he has "no regrets" about taking on the position.

The 2012 Olympic gold medallist has been reflecting on his first 100 days in the job, following his election victory as Reform UK's candidate in May.

In his first major interview since landing the role, he told BBC News he made the right decision joining the party led by Nigel Farage.

Campbell has kept a relatively low media profile since his transition from the boxing ring to the political arena, but has faced claims of creating a "toxic" working environment - an accusation he denies.

One of his first policy announcements is the creation of a £1m annual community fund for Hull and East Yorkshire - something the mayor said was part of his pledge to "stand up and represent the people" who voted for him.

Campbell has faced criticism over Reform UK's opposition to net zero climate targets. It is a position some say creates a conflict for a politician who represents much of the so-called Humber "energy estuary" with its growing links to the offshore wind industry.

Net zero was cited as a reason why he refused to join the three other Yorkshire metro mayors in signing the White Rose Agreement; a pledge to support economic growth and improved transport links across the county.

'Toxic' environment claims

Campbell refused to be drawn on his own personal views on green energy, but insisted he would "always put the people of this region first by creating jobs and bringing in investment".

There have also been newspaper reports he has "gone to war" with staff who it is claimed were "blocking his agenda".

Asked whether he had created a "toxic working environment", as claimed in the Daily Telegraph, Campbell replied: "Certainly not, no."

He added: "This is a great environment in this office and it's a pleasure to be a part of."

Campbell insisted he was focussing on the future and delivering on his election promises.

"I want to create opportunities, create better valued jobs, help support our families that are struggling in fuel poverty," he said.

Asked whether he had any other political ambitions after his mayoral term has ended, he replied: "I have no interest to be an MP. I have no interest to level myself up through party politics."

Campbell's four-year term as Hull and East Yorkshire mayor – which currently pays £72,000 a year – runs until 2029.

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