Rebel ex-Labour councillor Nik Searle is planning a surprise challenge to become Castle Point's next MP.

Mr Searle, 53, confirmed he had been approached to join the race to become an independent constituency MP at the next General Election.

He has refused to be drawn on whether he would definitely stand but did say he was considering his options.

Mr Searle was first suspended and then resigned from the Labour Party in October 1998.

The reason was never disclosed by Harry Pain, Castle Point's Labour whip.

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