A fresh dispute has emerged at Attleborough Town Council after a councillor admitted using the phrase “vexatious little rat” during a meeting break, triggering further controversy in an authority already known for deep divisions.
Samantha Taylor, who is also Chair of Breckland Council, confirmed that she used the wording during a private conversation but declined to say who it was directed at.
The council has previously been labelled “Battleborough” and “Aggroborough” due to repeated disputes, internal conflicts and formal complaints involving members.
Political Factions Divide the Council
Although Attleborough Town Council is officially non political, it is widely viewed as divided into two informal groups.
One faction, sometimes referred to locally as the Taylors, includes Mrs Taylor and several councillors aligned with the Conservative Party. This group currently holds a majority at many meetings.
The opposing group, known as the Newbies, includes more recently elected councillors, many of whom are associated with Reform UK.
Councillor Daniel Burcham, a member of the Newbies faction, said he overheard the remark during a break in proceedings and believed it was directed at him.
He described the comment as inappropriate in a professional setting and argued that councillors should maintain mutual respect, even when disagreeing on policy issues.
Taylor Responds to Allegations
Mrs Taylor rejected claims that the remark formed part of official council business, stating that it was a private conversation and not made during the meeting itself.
She also accused Mr Burcham of overhearing a discussion that was not intended for him. According to her account, the comment was spoken quietly to a colleague and was not shouted or delivered publicly.
Mrs Taylor has previously faced criticism over conduct at meetings, including an incident last year in which she admitted describing a member of the public as “short and fat”.
She has argued that disagreements within the council should not be interpreted as personal attacks, adding that councillors are not required to be friends outside formal sessions.
Wider Disputes and Local Controversies
The latest dispute adds to a series of incidents that have contributed to the council’s turbulent reputation.
In previous years, councillor controversies have included a conviction involving property damage, ongoing criminal proceedings for another member, and disputes connected to local business arrangements.
Some residents have staged protests outside council meetings, calling for improved standards and greater accountability.
Formal complaints have been submitted regarding councillor behaviour, although none have been upheld by the relevant monitoring authorities.
Calls for Lower Temperatures
The leader of Breckland Council, Sam Chapman Allen, said language used by elected representatives carries weight and should reflect the standards expected in public life.
He urged councillors across the district to reduce tensions and focus on service delivery for residents and local businesses.
Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman has also previously encouraged constructive dialogue amid ongoing disputes within the council area.
Community Impact
The continued disagreements have drawn significant attention from local residents, many of whom have attended meetings in large numbers.
Some members of the public have expressed frustration at repeated conflicts, arguing that prolonged disputes distract from core responsibilities such as planning, housing and community services.
Efforts have been made in recent years to improve working relationships, including the introduction of support measures for councillors following periods of heightened tension.
However, the latest exchange highlights the ongoing challenges facing the authority as it attempts to balance political differences with civic responsibilities.
