UKIP has lost another councillor in Thanet with the resignation of Mo Leys, who was elected last year.

Mr Leys, who represented Newington, said in a brief statement that he could no longer stand “under the UKIP banner” - but did not explain why.

It will trigger another by-election in Thanet and could further erode UKIP’s grip on the council.

His statement read: "It is with great sadness I announce my resignation from Thanet District Council. It has been an honour serving the residents of Newington for the past year. As you elected me under the Ukip banner, I feel I can no longer represent you under that banner. Therefore the right course of action is for me to resign instead of becoming someone who you did not vote for.”

"My decision is a private matter and will remain private."

Mr Leys worked at Pfizer and is a former army soldier. He lives in Ramsgate.

His decision leaves UKIP with 26 seats, compared to the 33 it won at the election. The Conservatives have 18 seats, Labour have 5, the independent democratic group has 4 and there are 2 independents.

The Thanet Extra tried to contact Mr Leys but he has not responded.