[1] By occupation a communications consultant, Darby began his political career in the National Democrats,[2] most of whose activity was centred on his West Midlands base.

He was appointed local organiser following Griffin's election as leader, and was courted for membership by the Freedom Party on its foundation, although he refused to leave the BNP.

[8] In this capacity, in November 2008 Darby faced criticism after admitting carrying out BNP party political work from his office as Barnbrook's assistant at City Hall.

"[11] In May the same year, he clashed with Archbishop Dr John Sentamu who had condemned the BNP for labelling British citizens of African and Asian descent as "racial foreigners".

"[12] On 1 July 2010, Darby resigned his role as deputy chairman citing impartiality regarding the then forthcoming 2010 BNP leadership election challenge, writing on his blog, "I didn't really want to be drawn into the leadership question, however, it seems the inevitable has happened, with adversaries of Nick Griffin raising the issue of the position of Deputy Leader in general, and referring to me in particular.