A Labour councillor has resigned due to ongoing health problems.

Coun Craig Turton who represents East Brighton for the Labour and Cooperative Party handed in his resignation to the Chief Executive of the council this afternoon.

He collapsed at a council meeting in February and has since suffered issues with his health.

A Labour Party spokesman said despite his illness Coun Turton "still maintained a high level of commitment to carrying out casework on behalf of the residents he represents."

Now he has decided he can no longer continue to serve as a councillor as his health problems make it impossible for him to attend meetings.

Coun Turton said: “It has been a privilege to have represented the East Brighton ward since 2003 and to have served the people of the Bristol Estate, Craven Vale, Kemptown, Manor Farm and Whitehawk alongside my dedicated Labour colleagues, Councillors Gill Mitchell and Warren Morgan.

"I have been particularly proud to have served as the chair of the Royal Sussex County Hospital Liaison Group and to have played a part in working with the Trust and local residents to see the 3Ts planning application approved.

I would like to thank all my colleagues, officers at the council, but most importantly the residents of my ward for their continued support during this difficult time."

Councillor Gill Mitchell, leader of the Labour and Cooperative Group said: "Craig has worked hard for residents in East Brighton for nine years but has been struggling with poor health since February this year. We respect his decision to resign and will miss a much valued colleague."