Deputy council leader steps down after four months

The deputy leader of a city council has announced he is to step down after four months in the role.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Reform UK Sunderland said councillor Daniel Cowie made the "difficult decision" after the "rapid deterioration of his father's health".

The party confirmed as Cowie was one of his father's primary carers, he was "no longer able to dedicate the significant additional time" required by the role while "balancing his family responsibilities".

Cowie is expected to continue representing the Grangetown ward as a councillor.

The former retail worker and carer was elected in the May 2026 "all-out" local elections which saw Reform UK sweep to power, and has been serving as deputy leader of the council since.

Cabinet member for corporate services and local government efficiency Andrew Ramsey will take on the deputy leader role after being elected in a special general meeting of the Reform UK Group, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

"He will continue in his existing portfolio alongside his new responsibilities as deputy leader, maintaining his focus on reducing waste, improving council operations and delivering better value for Sunderland residents," a statement said.

Sunderland City Council's next full council meeting will take place on 16 September.

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