A council boss has stepped down from his role citing "business demands."

Norman Smith has left his position of leader of Castle Point Councillor and councillor for Boyce Ward.

Jeffrey Stanley has now taken up the role as leader of the Council.

A council spokesman said: "Due to pressing business demands requiring his full and undivided attention which meant he was unable to carry out his responsibilities as a councillor and leader of the Council, Councillor Norman Smith has today resigned as Councillor representing the Boyce Ward and Leader of the Castle Point Borough Council."