Another Brighton and Hove city councillor has resigned from the ruling Labour Party, this time in a row over Iraq.

Susan Joy, who represents Regency ward, does not agree with current policy over a possible war in the Gulf.

She said: "I am not heading for any other party. I just believe the issue over the war is the last straw for me. I fundamentally do not believe war is ever right.

"I know some people will be very angry with me and, although it concerns me that I am letting down some people who elected me as a Labour candidate, I also believe many will be heartened by my stand."

Coun Joy, who was elected in 1999, had already decided not to stand again in next year's local elections. She will remain on the council as an independent and will continue to carry out case work.

A committed Christian and former Quaker, she works for East Sussex County Council.

Her resignation from the party follows that of South Portslade councillor Steve Collier, who now sits as independent Labour.