A FORMER Tory councillor has joined the Concerned Conservatives group.

It was announced at the latest full council meeting by mayor Anne Cheale, that Ian Harrison, a ward councillor for Corringham and Fobbing, had resigned five weeks ago from the South Basildon and East Thurrock Conservative Association.

Cllr Harrison was unavailable for comment.

Daphne Hart, cllr Harrison's partner who is well known for her charity work is also recovering from a major stroke.

Daphne, who runs borough charity Holiday Homes for the Handicapped in Chadwell St Mary suffered the stroke during a visit to Scratby several weeks ago.

She was in hospital in Gorleston for five weeks and is now undergoing physiotherapy in Norfolk.

Cllr Harrison said: ”Our aim is to be home in Corringham for Christmas.”