The former leader of the Labour party in Medway has suffered a heart attack.

Cllr Paul Godwin (Lab) was rushed to Medway Maritime Hospital hours before a meeting of the full council last night.

The news was announced by mayor of Medway Cllr Vaughan Hewett (Con) as proceedings began.

His wife Christine, also a Labour councillor, told colleagues: "He is in good hands. I don't know the extend of it all yet because I didn't get to speak to the doctor.

"He thanks everyone for their good wishes, I have had lots of texts and phone calls. I'm sure he is going to be okay.

"He's quite a private person so he's asked me to say he doesn't want any visitors. That's not because he's a grouch or a grump, but because he's a very private man."

The Chatham Central councillor, who is 60, stepped down as leader of the Labour group on Medway Council last May after 13 years.

He was succeeded by the deputy leader of the group, Cllr Vince Maple.

Leave your get well wishes for Cllr Godwin below.