THE Tories will lead Tendring Council’s new administration following a split in the district's Ukip group.

Neil Stock, who represents Ardleigh and Little Bromley, was elected as the new leader of the council at the authority's annual meeting tonight.

The Conservatives lost their overall majority on the council at the local elections on May 7, following a surge in support for Ukip.

It left the Tories with 23 seats and Ukip with 22.

But the Conservatives will lead the new administration following a deal with six independents and a break-away Ukip group.

Nine of the Ukip councillors have formed the new 'Tendring Ukip' group, led by Mick Skeels, and will work with the Conservative-led administration.

At least 12 Ukip councillors, led by Mark Stephenson, have vowed not to join the administration.

Mr Stock, who is in his fourth term of office as a Tendring councillor, said he will announce his deputy leader and the cabinet later this week.

Conservative councillor Fred Nicholls, who represents Thorrington, Frating, Elmstead and Great Bromley, was elected as the council’s new chairman and independent councillor Jayne Chapman, who represents Brightlingsea, was elected as vice-chairman.

For the full story, see Thursday’s Clacton, Frinton and Walton Gazette