Barmy Army distances itself from Vic Flowers’ political bid
The Barmy Army has stated that its “unofficial leader” does not represent their views after he announced his candidacy for Reform UK in the upcoming local elections, reports BritPanorama.
Vic Flowers, 74, declared last week his intention to stand for Reform UK in the Medlock Vale ward during the elections for Oldham Council set for May 7. Known for his distinctive appearance and flamboyant attire, Mr Flowers is a prominent figure among England cricket supporters.
Having discovered the Army in Melbourne in 1998, he has often led the group in song. In 2004, it was revealed that he had sold all his possessions to focus on being a member, ultimately earning the unofficial leadership role. Recently, he was seen in Australia for the 2025-26 Ashes series, although his appearances on tour have been less frequent in recent years.
In response to Mr Flowers’ political announcement, the Barmy Army issued a statement clarifying that he is not an “active member” and does not hold any official affiliation with the organization. “We wish to be clear that the individual referred to in recent media coverage, in connection with his candidacy for Reform UK at a local election, is not an active member of the Barmy Army, nor is he employed by, or affiliated with, the Barmy Army in any official capacity,” the statement read. It further emphasized that his views do not reflect those of the group as a whole.
Additionally, Flowers shared with the Manchester Evening News that he had not previously been politically active and did not typically vote, noting that he once supported Sir Tony Blair’s Labour but now considered that a “mistake.” He expressed his motivation to enter politics by stating, “The way things have gone in this country, I feel it needs my contribution, whatever that might be.”
Regarding his political alignment, he described Reform UK’s leader Nigel Farage as “different” and stated that he decided to run for office partly due to his admiration for him. “Just like in The Barmy Army, you must have a leader, a good leader,” he said, adding that under Farage, he sees hope for the country’s leadership.
In Medlock Vale, Flowers plans to offer what he calls a “bit of honesty” and criticized the Labour leadership of Oldham Council for perceived financial mismanagement. Drawing on his experiences in the Barmy Army, Flowers remarked that addressing a crowd in a political capacity requires courage, remarking that “I discovered a lot about myself. Things have moved on now. Before it was cricket, now it was politics.”
As the local elections near, the candidates standing in Medlock Vale include Shona Farnworth (Liberal Democrats), Victor Flowers (Reform UK), Cameron Lee Gates (Green), Junaid Hussain (Labour and Co-operative), and Sharoon Zaman (Oldham Group Party).
With his blend of charisma and controversy, Flowers encapsulates how sporting fervor can seamlessly intersect with the political landscape, reminding us that even fanfare can find its way into governance.
