RESIDENTS in Ockendon are now facing a double by-election in May following a decision by leading Conservative Andrew Jefferies to quit his role as a councillor.

Mr Jefferies, who was a prominent front bencher for the Conseravtives and led the council for two years, proferred his resignation as a councillor today (Monday, 3 March).

The move was not entirely unexpected as he had made public his decision to stand down as opposition leader last week.

Today he issued the following statement: "Due to a change in personal circumstances, the proposed local government review which has seen the planned elections due in May being suspended, and with a by-election already pending, it seems the right time to stand down so that both by-elections can be held on the same day.

"I would like to place on record my thanks to all councillors from across the political divide who I have had the pleasure of working with over the last six years and all council officers for their support and dedication.

"Finally, I would like to thank the residents of Ockendon for putting their trust and faith in me to represent them.

"It has truly been an honour and a privilege to call myself councillor for Ockendon. 

"Thurrock has a great future, and I sincerely hope who ever represents Ockendon in the future that they ensure the residents reap the benefits from local government reorganisation in both jobs and prosperity. "

The by-election, planned for Thursday, 1 May, will be for two seats, following the resignation of Labour councillor Ryan Polston in January.