Durham County Council

The move by Newcastle City Council follows similar schemes by other authorities including Durham.

Andrew Husband, who is expected to become council leader, says the party has a "mandate for change".

Paul Sexton says he is joining Reform so Chester-le-Street will have a "voice on the inside".

Andrew Kilburn has stood down after failing to declare that he worked for Durham County Council.

There have been claims a number of newly elected Reform UK councillors will not be able to continue.

Some County Durham families will be able to apply for up to £6,800, the North East mayor says.

Reform UK pledges to end diversity roles after taking control of Durham County Council.

Work on the 131-year-old Causeway Bridge over the River Wear is to begin on Tuesday.