As a prospective parliamentary candidate for Reform UK, James has shown a commendable grasp on the challenges of tourism pressure, the second home market, and local business support in Westmorland and Lonsdale. His balanced approach to sustainable tourism and commitment to tackling the second home crisis while bolstering local businesses is exactly what our constituency needs. I am confident that James is the right choice for addressing these pressing issues, and he has my full support in the upcoming election.
James Townley
Chairman
Brief info
As Chairman of Reform UK for Westmorland and Lonsdale, I’m proud to represent a community that means everything to me. Having lived in the South Lakes for most of my life, my connection to this area goes beyond just geography—it’s my home, my roots, and the place where my family and I have built our lives. The Lake District is more than stunning views and rolling hills; it’s a reflection of what makes Britain great, and I’m determined to fight to protect and strengthen it.
It sickens me to see the state of our country right now. The pride and values that my grandparents and so many others fought for are being thrown away, and I can’t stand by and let it happen. I want to fight to bring back the Britain we were once proud of—a country that worked for its people and gave them hope for the future.
In my role as chairman, I’m fully committed to Westmorland and Lonsdale. I’ve spent most of my life here, and despite work that’s taken me across the UK and beyond, I’ve always come back to the South Lakes. It’s where my wife, Arabella, and I have chosen to raise our two boys. She moved up here in 2018 from London, leaving her career in TV, and now runs a business in Milnthorpe creating bespoke curtains, blinds, and soft furnishings. Together, we’ve built a life that shows the potential of this area as a thriving and supportive community.
I joined Reform UK because I’ve had enough of watching things stagnate. For years, I supported the Conservatives, but I just can’t stand behind them anymore. The lack of action and the feeling that we’re stuck going nowhere is impossible to ignore. Reform UK offers something different—a real chance to challenge the status quo and push for meaningful change, not just for Westmorland and Lonsdale, but for the country as a whole.
While many people regard our current MP as doing a good job locally, I believe there’s room for improvement, particularly when it comes to addressing broader issues that impact both our community and the country. I respect the work that’s been done, but I’m confident that with a fresh perspective and a focused approach, I can bring new energy and solutions to the challenges we face here in Westmorland and Lonsdale.
This role isn’t about me—it’s about what I can do for all of us. I’m here to listen, to learn, and to make a real difference. I love this area, and I love this country. I’m not afraid to fight to bring back the pride, strength, and opportunity that Britain—and Westmorland and Lonsdale—deserve. Together, I believe we can make that happen.
