In a move that surprised absolutely no one with a working internet connection, Reform UK has suspended one of its councillors after his social media history came back to haunt him - specifically, 2019-era posts that were, shall we say, not exactly progressive.

Kirklees councillor Dave Rowan, who was elected in May by winning the Colne Valley West ward from Labour, found himself in hot water after an X post from 2019 appeared to show him calling for a former Commons Speaker to be hanged. Specifically, he wrote "Hang the Dwarf" in reference to John Bercow. Because nothing says 'respect for democratic institutions' like suggesting the execution of a political figure based on his height.

But wait, there's more. Also in 2019, before he was a councillor, Rowan apparently posted homophobic and Islamophobic statements. One post read: "As a parent not at school.. I don't beleive gays should have kids full stop.." (We'll ignore the spelling error; the sentiment was clear.) Another said: "Too many muslims mi thinks.. Make sure you take a marker pen Good luck." Classy.

A Reform UK spokesman confirmed the suspension in a statement: "Cllr Rowan has been suspended from Reform UK pending investigation." So, he's suspended, but still a councillor - because apparently, the party's vetting process is as thorough as a sieve.

Reform became the largest party on Kirklees Council after winning 29 seats at May's local elections, which is either a testament to their popularity or a damning indictment of the alternatives. Two Reform councillors have already left the party this year: Susan Maxfield moved to stand as an Independent on 3 July, and Craig Wiles stepped down entirely due to health issues on 26 June. Because why not add a little more chaos?

A spokesperson for Kirklees Council said, "We are aware that Cllr Rowan is currently suspended from the Reform UK group but remains a Kirklees councillor." So, he's still collecting a paycheck while the party decides what to do with him. We're sure the investigation will be thorough and swift - just like the party's response to this scandal.

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, and catch up with the latest episode of Look North, where we're sure this story will get the coverage it deserves - alongside the inquiry into the Farage poster row at an anti-racism show, and the tragic news that an ex-mayor died by suicide after arrest, as per the coroner.