A NEWLY-formed branch of Reform UK for the Tiverton and Minehead constituency is appealing to former members of the Armed Forces to join its ranks.

Deputy chairman Nick Tolson said he wanted to ‘reach out’ to veterans, who were ‘loyal members of our community who hold invaluable skills and experiences that can truly make a difference for our country’.

The branch covers West Somerset, much of Exmoor, and parts of the Culm Valley, Blackdown Hills, and a number of parishes bordering Wellington.

Mr Tolson said he was inviting veterans to join so they would have an opportunity to vote on key policies and ‘help steer our branch toward positive change in both our local area and nationwide’.

He said: “At Reform UK, we wholeheartedly believe that ‘You Serve, You Deserve’.

“That is why we are committed to establishing a dedicated Department for Veterans to ensure your voices are heard and your needs are met.

“We are also ready to stand up for our current Armed Services by advocating for an increase in defence spending to three per cent of GDP, expanding the size of our Armed Forces, improving housing conditions, and prioritising the defence of the realm.

“It is going to take time to rectify the unfortunate defence policies that have persisted under Labour and Conservative Governments, along with the indifference shown by the Lib Dems.

“As a proud veteran myself, I am genuinely excited to invite you to join us in this mission.

“I took the Queen’s shilling to protect my country and to protect British values.

“Let us engage in fruitful discussions, share your insights, and work together to tackle the issues facing our area and country head on.”

Mr Tolson said meetings were being planned over the next few months across the constituency which he hoped many veterans would attend.