In an historic event, the 2023 local elections saw the first Labour councillors elected to Wealden District Council since its foundation almost 50 years ago, with the Conservative Party also losing control of the council for the first time in 25 years.

The new Labour District councillors both also serve on Uckfield Town Council. Dan Manvell, Wealden District Councillor for Uckfield North, was first elected aged 18 to become the youngest ever member of the Town Council and is currently leading the campaign to save Uckfield Leisure Centre. Ben Cox, Wealden District Councillor for Uckfield New Town, has long been fighting poverty locally and helped to found the Uckfield Community Fridge.

Both Ben and Dan are delighted to have won their seats on Wealden District Council. They will be working hard to keep Uckfield Leisure Centre open, champion affordable housing, and improve local public services.