Reform UK holds first annual conference amid internal divisions

Reform UK is holding its first annual conference, with party leader Nigel Farage seeking to present a united front after a year marked by internal strife, defections and controversies.

The gathering comes as Reform seeks to consolidate its position as the main opposition force to Labour. The party made significant gains in last year's general election, winning dozens of seats and becoming a major force in British politics.

However, the past year has seen a series of tensions, with several MPs clashing with the leadership over policy and party management. The conference programme includes speeches from senior figures and debates on key policy areas including immigration, economic reform and public services.

Farage is expected to use his keynote address to set out an ambitious agenda ahead of local elections. Critics have questioned whether Reform can evolve from a protest movement into a credible governing party.

Reform's rise has reshaped British politics, putting pressure on both Labour and the Conservatives. Polling consistently shows it as the most popular party among voters over 65 and in many traditional working-class constituencies.