POLICE are investigating allegations a councillor gave out treats ahead of her by-election win, the Gazette can reveal.

Sue Shinnick won the Stifford Clays seat on Thursday, October 17.

The police’s probe surrounds a claim Ms Shinnick bought tea and cakes for elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex, 11 days before her win.

Labour has dismissed the allegation as “a pathetic and politically motivated stunt”.

The Gazette understands police were contacted after Ms Shinnick made a lunchtime visit to Elizabeth Gardens retirement homes in Long Lane, Grays, on Sunday, October 6.

An East of England Labour Party spokesman told the Gazette: “This is a pathetic and politically motivated stunt.

“No-one who cared about Thurrock would be wasting the police’s time with ridiculous unfounded allegations.”

An Essex police spokesman said: “Police are continuing to investigate an allegation of treating in Thurrock.”

Information provided by the Electoral Commission states: “A person is guilty of treating if either before, during or after an election they directly or indirectly give or provide any food, drink, entertainment or provision to corruptly influence any voter to vote or refrain from voting. Treating requires a corrupt intent - it does not apply to ordinary hospitality.”

Ms Shinnick won a hard-fought election last month, which was called following the death of longstanding Stifford Clays councillor Diana Hale in August.

She got 36.8 per cent of the vote.

Conservative candidate Danny Nicklen polled 32.5 per cent of the vote, while UKIP’s Clive Broad received 28.7 per cent.

The Gazette was unsuccessful in several attempts to make contact with Ms Shinnick.