 He was then followed in May 2004 by Jeff Potts who defected to join the Conservatives and blamed infighting within the Labour party for his decision.Both councillors contested the election, Jim Ryan as an independent, and Jeff Potts as a Conservative in Kingshurst and Fordbridge ward.The election saw the British National Party (BNP) contest 2 seats in Chelmsley Wood and Olton wards, while the National Front contested Silhill ward.