Outgoing Isle of Wight Conservative councillor John Kilpatrick, who currently represents Binstead and Fishbourne, is throwing his support behind an independent candidate, instead of a fellow party member.

Cllr Kilpatrick who, as the Isle of Wight County Press previously reported is not standing for election on May 6, is writing to residents to show his support for former soldier, radio presenter and club DJ Ian Dore.

Mr Dore is one of three people standing in the ward, along with Simon Cooke and Conservative candidate Ed Hopper.

In a 'farewell' letter, Cllr Kilpatrick wrote: "You may think this is a rallying cry to get behind the Conservative candidate and show them support. However, I am of the opinion there is someone more suited to represent the community and therefore you.

"It is my opinion that the Isle of Wight Conservative party has chosen a representative that does not fit that criteria.

"A ward needs a councillor that can operate autonomously, free from any party or association; whip or influence.

"I have seen first hand how this can slow things down and in some cases, block what is the correct line of action."

Cllr Kilpatrick previously told the Isle of Wight County Press that he had "enjoyed helping tackle and resolve local issues but [felt] equally frustrated by not achieving everything I set out to do."

Ed Hopper said: “We are grateful to John for his service as an Isle of Wight Councillor over the past four years and wish him well for the future, wherever that may take him.

"The election of a councillor for the new Binstead and Fishbourne ward will be decided by voters living in the area, so my focus will be on communicating with those who are eligible to vote in this ward on May 6.

"I hope that all electors will take the opportunity, over the next few weeks, to find out about the experience and skills of each candidate standing for election and then make their own decision as to who should represent them in the next council term.”

Ian Dore said: “Over the last four years, after becoming a father and supporting my mother's decline with Alzheimer's, my experiences have defined some of my views and you can see that, with a bit of spirit and courage, you can affect positive change.

"I’ve been in Binstead since 1974, I live here, I love here and you fight for what you love."