Barmy Army is distancing itself from ‘unofficial leader’ after he announced Reform candidacy

The Barmy Army has distanced itself from one of its best-known members after declaring in favor of Reform in local elections in May.

Vic Flowers, 74, who is known as the unofficial leader of the England cricket fans’ group, announced last week that he was representing Nigel Farage’s party in the Oldham Council elections.

Mr. Flowers is known for his bold outfits, which include plenty of England-themed attire that makes him easy to spot in a crowd, as cameras often do.

After making his debut in 1998, he was seen in many of England’s home and international matches for the Barmy Army.

Although the fan has been touring less in recent years, he did make a trip to Australia for the Ashes at the end of last year.

Much more than an informal group, the Barmy Army is a well-organised organization and the official supporters’ club of the England cricket side.

It offers tickets, travel packages and products to provide a good atmosphere for every England match.

In response to Mr Flowers’ announcement, he issued a statement saying: ‘We would like to clarify that the person recently mentioned in the media in connection with his candidacy for Reform UK in the local elections is not an active member of the Barmy Army or employed by or affiliated with the Barmy Army in any official capacity.

In response, the Barmy Army distanced itself from Mr. Flowers and made it clear that his views did not represent those of the group.

The Barmy Army released its statement on X on Tuesday afternoon.

‘Any views attributed to him do not reflect the views, values ​​or position of the Barmy Army as an organization or its wider support community.

‘The Barmy Army does not support any political agenda, candidate or campaign and is entirely focused on supporting England cricket in a way that brings our supporters together and celebrates them.’

Mr Flowers announced he was representing Reform UK in the Medlock Vale area of ​​east Manchester, marking his first foray into politics.

He officially announced his candidacy on St George’s Day (23 April), with a red cross emblazoned on his clothing, hat and flag.

Mr Flowers said: Manchester Evening News He was always working class and didn’t usually vote, but now he feels compelled to make a change.

As well as seeing many people ‘fed up’, he said he was motivated by the interest in Farage.

Mr Flowers said of the Reform leader: ‘He’s a pretty good leader and just like with the Barmy Army, you’ve got to have a leader, a good leader. Farage is perfect for this. I will follow him…

‘There hasn’t been anything like a leader in this country since Margaret Thatcher and I think that’s what’s needed, leadership.’

He added that he believed a vote for him would be a ‘protest vote’ but that Reform could offer ‘some honesty’ to the region.

Mr Flowers, who grew up in Ashton Road in Medlock Vale, attended a now-closed modern secondary school before becoming a joiner and joiner and now lives alone in Hathershaw.

He said he was ‘very patriotic’ and rang the bells at Oldham Parish Church every Sunday.

Reformation England has been approached for comment.