Five election moments you may have missed

The 2026 elections for English councils, the Senedd in Wales, and the Scottish Parliament featured a broad array of candidates vying for public office, with millions of votes cast across the regions.

The atmosphere was charged with a mix of victory celebrations and emotional farewells, marked by moments of exuberance, disappointment, and even spirited heckling.

Amidst the long overnight counts on Thursday and into Friday, several instances of human interest and quirkiness unfolded, which may not have captured the spotlight but are worth recounting.

Former Big Brother star elected

Alex Sibley, once a prominent figure on the 2002 series of Big Brother, re-emerged in the public eye as a candidate for Reform UK. Known for his advocacy of cleanliness and hygiene, Sibley had turned his 15 minutes of fame into a successful promotional career.

Fast forward more than two decades, he teamed up with fellow candidate David Johnson to announce their candidacy on social media, remarking, "It's Official. 7th May 2026. With a combined age of 126 years and no degree from Oxford or Cambridge in Politics, we are Emerson Park candidates for Havering and Reform UK."

Both Sibley and Johnson achieved electoral success early Friday morning, and Sibley humorously noted his need to leave for the school run, eliciting laughter from fellow candidates.

Two by-elections in Scotland as MPs move to Holyrood

Recent legislative changes require two MPs who successfully claimed seats in the Scottish Parliament to resign from Westminster. According to new rules, it is not permissible to hold both positions simultaneously.

Stephen Flynn, the leader of the SNP at Westminster, recently secured a seat as an MSP for Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine. He now faces a deadline of 49 days to vacate his Westminster seat in Aberdeen South, which will trigger a by-election.

Flynn, often mentioned as a potential future leader of the SNP, expressed his commitment to represent the interests of North Sea oil and gas workers, address the challenges of the cost of living, and provide hope for young individuals.

Additionally, Stephen Gethins will also need to resign from his MP role following his victory in the Dundee City East seat at Holyrood. Gethins, who previously served as the MP for Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, had announced his desire for a dual mandate shortly after the 2024 election, thereby necessitating another Westminster by-election.

Lib Dem candidate collapses and is treated by Reform candidate

An unexpected incident occurred during the Merton count in London in the early hours of Friday when a Liberal Democrat candidate, distinguished by a bright yellow tie, collapsed.

In a moment reflecting the unity of purpose beyond party lines, a doctor among the Reform UK candidates stepped forward to assist, ensuring the well-being of the fallen candidate. The incident unfolded around 4 a.m. at the Canons Leisure Centre in Mitcham. After receiving care, the candidate was able to return home to recuperate.

Captain Beany stands as an Independent in Wales

A wave of excitement swept through the Afan Ogwr Rhondda count for the Senedd on Friday, highlighted by the arrival of Independent candidate Captain Beany. The 71-year-old was dressed in a striking fluorescent orange suit, complete with matching spectacles and a tie adorned with a baked bean motif.

A long-standing figure in Welsh electoral politics, Captain Beany has campaigned in both local and general elections since the 1990s, often supporting charitable causes. He announced that this election would mark his final attempt, expressing his hope to ignite "election fever" and encourage young people to engage with politics.

Former footballer tackles politics

Graham Shaw, a former professional footballer with Stoke City, has transitioned from sports to local governance, having secured a seat on the council in the Midlands.

Now representing the Knutton ward on Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council as a Reform councillor, Shaw communicated his belief that voters are ready to give him a chance due to dissatisfaction with the current national political landscape.