A former Northumberland County Councillor, John Allen, received £18,888 despite not attending any council meetings for six months. Mr Allen, who represented Ashington's Hirst ward, lost his seat on 20 August after failing to attend any council meetings or sub-committees since 18 February.
Northumberland County Council confirmed that Mr Allen, like all elected councillors that year, was paid the sum to cover duties, constituency work, postage, and stationery. The authority stated it has no powers to reclaim the money.
Mr Allen, a former Reform UK member, was expelled from the party in 2025 following allegations of online comments. He is now standing as an Independent in the by-election for the Ashington Hirst ward, with polls opening on 1 October. The successful candidate in the by-election, even if it is Mr Allen, would also be paid £18,888.