A Thanet councillor who quit UKIP to set up a new independent group has rejoined the party.

Beverly Martin,who represents Central Harbour ward, was one of four councillors who quit Ukip last September and set up a new independent group on the council.

At the time, the four said the council was not doing enough to represent the interests of disabled residents but there was also unhappiness over the lack of progress being made on a possible CPO for Manston Airport.

In a statement, Cllr Martin said: "I have missed the support and friendship of the larger group at UKIP, many of whom have remained in touch. It is great to be back and part of an active and focused group once again".

The news is a welcome fillip for Ukip at Thanet which continues to run the council as a minority administration but has been embroiled in the long-standing attempt to force a CPO over Manston.

At the time that Mrs Martin and three others quit, Cllr Wells said they had been a disruptive influence.

But today he welcomed back the former defector,saying:

"I am delighted to welcome Beverly back to the group, many of us have felt for a while her heart remained loyal to UKIP, and so it has proved."

There are reports that a second member of the group that quit is also considering re-joining Ukip.