Castle Point's Labour opposition lay in tatters today after the shock resignation of leader Dave Blackwell.

The walkout tops a year of misery for the borough's Labour group who were crushed by the Tories at last May's council election.

Labour are now left with just one borough representative - Dave's brother Terry - and it is not possible to have an opposition group consisting of less than two councillors.

But big brother Dave is not finished with politics and has vowed to go it alone and form the Canvey Independence Party.

Speaking about his decision Mr Blackwell said: "This has been a considerable jump but I have been inundated with people offering me their support and saying they would vote for me if I stood as an independent.

"I have become totally disillusioned with party politics."

John Waugh, borough secretary at Castle Point Council, said: "An individual who sits on the council does not have any rights to seats on committees and the ruling party can refuse them seats."

Jeff Stanley, deputy Tory group leader, said: "We are not frightened of opposition voices and we are not likely to take away their seats."

Published Tuesday January 20, 2004

Brought to you by the Evening Echo