'We are on the cusp of a local movement': Ex-Labour councillor forms new party to fight Stockport's next election

A former Labour councillor who acrimoniously quit after being barred from standing as a candidate has formed a new party. Coun Matt Wynne will lead the Edgeley Community Association (ECA) - now registered with the Electoral Commission - at Stockport council’s ‘all out’ local elections in May.As its name suggests, the fledgling party will concentrate on the new Edgeley ward, which is set to separate from Cheadle Heath under a boundary shake-up. Coun Wynne launched a blistering attack on his local party last year, claiming he had fallen victim to a ‘weaponised’ selection process following a ‘gradual takeover’ of what he called the ‘far left’.

It is understood the national Labour Party was satisfied selections were followed in accordance with its rules and processes. He has now regrouped to found the ECA and - together with Leah Taylor and Asa Caton - will challenge for the three Edgeley seats on the council.READ MORE: The people left stranded in 'Little Europe' and their anger at empty promises

While Coun Wynne says he ultimately found leaving Labour ‘liberating’ he said he admits he ‘can't carry the torch alone’. “Not a day goes by that I don't count myself not just lucky but privileged to represent this area,” he told the Local Democracy Reporting Service.“But it also comes with its challenges, too , that need good, quality representatives - a team which was custom and practice in Edgeley up until recently. The foundations of that are now in place. The good work and incredible sense of community we have round here needs a platform to ensure it continues to hold its own. “Coun Wynne says part of the ECA’s vision is to bring community groups together for the good of the area.“Our community and faith groups do so much fine