A “HUMILIATED” councillor has spoken of his “18 months of hell” as he fought to clear his name after being convicted of assault.

George Ioannou, a Rochford ward councillor, was found guilty of assault in August 2019 after a “family incident”, but has now successfully overturned the verdict following an appeal.

The former Conservative, who says he suffered for months with depression, and stress, now plans to stand again for re-election.

He has revealed the struggles he went through to keep working and make sure his “innocence was maintained throughout.”

Mr Ioannou has thanked the council for its support “through the tough times”, despite leaving the Conservative Party last year.

He said: “It’s been horrendous, I have to be honest.

“It was a real struggle to keep going at times, but the meditation did help.

“I’m so relieved it’s over.

“The stress of it all has left a mark on me.”

Mr Ioannou took the case to appeal at Basildon crown court on Friday, where the appeal was successful.

The councillor for Roche North and Rural, added: “The majority of residents and councillors supported me.

“I know who I can and can’t trust now.

“I felt very humiliated.

“I kept thinking about how it will it come across to those I represent.

“I just had to brace myself against the allegation.”

Mr Ioannou was supported by the council leader, Simon Wootton, and his close friend Mike Wilkinson, a fellow Independent councillor.

Mr Wilkinson said: “I was at both court cases, and I’m glad it’s all been sorted out.

“I know George has the strength of character to come back from this.”

Mr Ioannou, revealed his plans as he can “fully concentrate” on council work, saying: “I can now get back to representing the people of my ward.

“I am aiming to stand for re-election and I will be going for a county councillor too.

“I will be taking on developers.

“I don’t think residents have had a fair say or enough time to share their concerns on developments in the district. “