CONTROVERSIAL UKIP councillor has said he has quit the party after a long period of suspension.

Aveley and Uplands councillor, Robert Ray was suspended in February 2015 following a conviction for drink-driving.

Cllr Ray said "I have informed the chairman of UKIP that I have resigned from the party.

"It was the right thing to do. There did not seem to be a mechanism for me to defend myself.

"I have yet to decide whether to seek re-election as a councillor in May.

"Since my wife died last year, things have been very difficult and I might need a little time for myself.

"When it comes to politics, I think UKIP has lost its way and is not the radical party that I put s lot of time and energy into building up in Thurrock."