A South Woodford councillor has resigned from the Liberal Democrats.

Cllr Nicola Sinclair has represented Church End ward since 2006 but left the party this week.

She will continue as an independent until the Redbridge Council elections later this year.

Lib Dem group leader Cllr Ian Bond said she had been de-selected by the group because of health problems.

He added: “I think it’s very sad and we are very grateful for her work over the last eight years.

“We are very sorry she decided she didn’t want to stay with the Lib Dems.”

It is unclear whether Cllr Sinclair will be standing in the elections as an independent or for another party.

The Recorder was unable to contact her for a comment.

It is the second defection within the council this month after Cllr Edward Griffin, who represents Hainault, left the Conservatives for Ukip.

“I think they are more in tune with the way people think these days,” he said.