Reform UK drops support for candidate in Redcar by-election after alleged 'racist' remarksMike Manning was the party's pick in Zetland ward, Redcar, where polling is due to take place next monthMike Manning (Image: Facebook/Reform UK)Reform UK has withdrawn support for its candidate in an upcoming Redcar and Cleveland Council by-election after criticism of alleged 'racist', offensive social media posts. Mr Manning, meanwhile, a post on his Facebook profile “profusely apologised” for the “unfortunate” content and said he had resigned his membership from the party. A statement from the Redcar branch of Reform UK said his application to stand as a candidate was subject to party vetting requirements. It has not been possible to contact Mr Manning directly for comment. The Redcar branch of Reform UK previously announced that it was proud to introduce the former Royal Artillery serviceman, who has also worked in IT, as its candidate in Zetland.