Ant Middleton backs Reform UK's Robert Kenyon in Makerfield byelection
Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon has been criticised after welcoming an endorsement from former soldier and TV personality Ant Middleton, known for his controversial views and criminal record.
Robert Kenyon, Reform UK's candidate in the Makerfield byelection, shared a video featuring Ant Middleton, a former special forces soldier and television presenter, describing him as “one of my heroes”. Middleton has previously made anti-Muslim remarks, including statements that “You can’t be a Muslim and be in charge of a Christian nation/city” and that first, second, and third-generation immigrants should not hold top-tier government positions.
Middleton, who was convicted in 2013 for unlawful wounding of a police officer and common assault, had addressed the Reform UK conference in 2024 and was considered a potential London mayoral candidate. However, the party later distanced itself from him as his views shifted further to the far right. He has appeared alongside far-right activist Tommy Robinson at rallies.
Labour MP Anna Turley criticised the endorsement, stating that Reform UK has no shame. She noted that Middleton has a criminal record for assaulting police officers and that his company failed to pay over £1 million in tax. Turley also referenced his comments about the mayor of London not being English.
The endorsement has sparked controversy amid the competitive byelection race. A leaked poll suggests that Reform UK may be challenged by the hard-right party Restore Britain, founded by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe. The poll puts Labour at 35%, Reform UK at 24%, and Restore Britain at 13%, potentially costing Reform the seat.
