Ukip faces a test of its popularity in Thanet in a by-election triggered by the departure of one of its councillors who is moving to Thailand.

Vince Munday has formally resigned his Newington seat which he won when Ukip won control of Thanet council at the election in May.

The by-election will also be a test of Labour’s standing as it held the seat before Ukip.

In a resignation statement posted on Facebook, Mr Munday said
that “due to major family and personal circumstances” he was standing down. He is moving to Thailand with his wife Fa.

He urged voters to back candidate Duncan Smithson saying: “By supporting him you will help perpetuate the great work that is being done, and will continue to be done for the residents of Newington and Thanet by our UKIP-run council.”

In a notice announcing the by-election, the council said if it receives a request to hold the poll by Saturday, it will take place no later than January 21.

In May, Ukip took the two-member ward from Labour which had regarded it as one of its safer seats.

The by-election is likely to be a two-horse race between Ukip and Labour as the Conservatives came in third in May.

Ukip lost its majority on the council in October when Jeff Elenor left to join forces with four other former Ukip councillors who formed an independent group.