The Reform UK leader of Staffordshire County Council, Cllr Martin Murray, has stepped down.

After seven months in the role, having been formally elected in March, Cllr Murray has resigned as both county council leader and leader of the Reform UK Group.

Cllr Murray said: "Following careful consideration, I have concluded that it is in the best interests of Staffordshire, our residents and this County Council for me to step down as leader of Staffordshire County Council and leader of the Reform UK Group.

"This was a difficult decision, but the interests of Staffordshire, the Council and those we serve must come first.

"I do so with a clear conscience and immense pride in what we achieved together.

"During my time as leader, we delivered a balanced budget, protected frontline services, secured significant investment in highways, children's services and community facilities, and provided stability through one of the most challenging periods in the county council's recent history."

Cllr Murray's exit is the latest in a series of leadership changes in the county following the departures of Ian Cooper and Chris Large.

Cllr Hayley Coles, previously the council's deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and culture, is now acting leader of Staffordshire County Council.

She has also been selected as the party's group leader.

The new leader and deputy leader will be formally selected at a meeting of Full Council on 10 December 2026.

Cllr Coles said: "I feel privileged to have been trusted to lead the council into this new chapter.

"My focus now is to drive forward the delivery of our plans for the county.

"I intend to advocate strongly for our residents and businesses, ensure people get effective and efficient council services and champion Staffordshire as the wonderful county it is.

"I want to thank Cllr Murray for his leadership thus far and the passion he has shown."

Cllr Coles will retain her cabinet responsibilities and Cllr Murray will continue to represent Cannock Town as a Reform UK member.

Cllr Murray added: "It has been a privilege to serve the people of Staffordshire and to work alongside dedicated councillors, officers, businesses, community organisations and residents.

"While my time as leader has come to an end, my commitment to Staffordshire and the people of Cannock remains unchanged.

"I do wish the council and its new leadership every success in the years ahead."