Suspended politician quits Labour amid WhatsApp group scandal investigation

A politician has resigned from Labour amid an investigation into the WhatsApp group scandal which tore through the party.

Coun Charlotte Martin was one of the 11 councillors from Tameside and Reddish suspended by Labour for being part of the ‘Trigger Me Timbers’ WhatsApp group earlier this year.

Gorton and Denton MP Andrew Gwynne was sacked from his junior health minister role on February 8 having been accused of making antisemitic, sexist and racist remarks in the group.

Mr Gwynne, who apologised for his ‘badly misjudged’ comments, now sits as an independent MP alongside his former Labour colleague and Burnley MP Oliver Ryan, after both were suspended.

Now, Coun Martin has resigned from the Labour Party – before the investigation into the WhatsApp group has come to a conclusion.

The Audenshaw representative apologised to anyone offended by her participation in the ‘Trigger Me Timbers’ group, but cited personal reasons as to why she has decided to quit Labour. She also intends to stand down when her councillor term comes to an end in May 2027.

In a statement to constituents, Coun Martin said: “I have made the decision to resign from the Labour Party.

“I will now serve as an independent councillor for Audenshaw.

“The past few months have been incredibly difficult. However, I am a private person, and the personal reasons behind this decision will remain private.

“I apologise to anyone who has been offended or upset by my membership in the WhatsApp group Trigger Me Timbers.

“I wish Coun Teresa Smith and Coun Nick Axford well. It is our intention to continue working closely together on the issues that matter to you.

“Not only are we still good friends, but we also know that getting things done in Audenshaw is more important than party politics.

“To give you a full picture, I do not intend to stand again in May 2027, when my current term ends. Nick has my full support for the May 2026 elections. 

“If you need help with council casework, please do get in touch through the usual channels.”