Michael Dunk, a Somerset Green Party councillor representing Frome West, may not have to immediately vacate his council seat following his recent imprisonment. Dunk, affectionately known as “Mick,” was sentenced on December 5, 2025, at Southwark Crown Court to 26 months in prison and ordered to pay £4,380 in costs. His sentence relates to his involvement in the Just Stop Oil protest on November 8, 2022, where activists climbed M25 gantries to oppose new fossil fuel projects.
Supporters have raised over £6,000 via a Crowdfunder to cover his court costs. Meanwhile, Councillor Martin Dimery, who shares representation of the same division, confirmed that Dunk intends to appeal his conviction. Under the Criminal Appeal Act 1968, Dunk has 28 days from sentencing to file this appeal, with exceptions in special circumstances.
Dimery explained that Dunk is entitled to remain a councillor while the appeal is underway, which could be a prolonged process. He also highlighted the potential deductions from Dunk’s sentence, such as time already served under curfew and during custody, which may reduce the prison term.
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Importantly, if the final sentence exceeds three months, whether suspended or not, Dunk will face disqualification from the council. Dimery noted that Dunk’s sentence is severe relative to the peaceful nature of his demonstration, resembling punishments given to individuals involved in the Southport riots earlier in 2024.
Despite the conviction, Dunk will not be allowed to vote on the upcoming Somerset Council budget scheduled for February 25, 2026, as only councillors present in the meeting without council tax arrears are eligible to vote.
Somerset Council stressed that Dunk remains in office unless he resigns or fails in his appeal. No by-election or immediate replacement has been arranged pending the outcome. The council confirmed that disqualification only takes effect after the appeal window closes or if an appeal is unsuccessful.