Councillor Robert Ray has stood down as Chairman of UKIP Thurrock branch.

Mr Ray has also been suspended from party activity.

UKIP's Leader on Thurrock Council, Councillor Graham Snell, will take over as acting Chairman of the branch.

The move comes following Mr Ray's recent drink-driving conviction at Basildon Magistrates' Court.

A spokesman for UKIP Thurrock said: "The branch would like to thank Mr. Ray for his service during this time. Mr. Ray."

"We are now fully focused on Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Tim Aker winning Thurrock's parliamentary seat, as well as helping elect more UKIP Councillors in May's elections in Thurrock."