A Reform UK council leader has resigned just months after his election, leaving his 18-year-old deputy in charge of Warwickshire County Council. Rob Howard, elected in May, announced his departure on Wednesday, citing health reasons in a brief statement.

Howard, who led Reform to become the largest party in Warwickshire, expressed regret over his decision. “The role of leader is extremely demanding, and my health challenges prevent me from continuing,” he said. He will remain a county councillor, committed to serving residents.

The resignation sees George Finch, an 18-year-old Reform councillor, step into the role of interim leader until a permanent replacement is elected. The party’s local election gains allowed it to form a minority administration, managing £1.5bn in assets and a £500m budget.

Howard’s exit follows his earlier pledge to embrace the challenges of leadership. The council now faces a period of transition under its young interim leader.