English Democrat Robin Tilbrook has stepped down in the race to be the next Essex Police Commissioner.

The Chairman of the English Democrats Party said he made the move to throw his weight behind Ukip candidate Bob Spink's campaign. 

The announcement that the Essex solicitor would not be standing on May 5 and would instead be seconding Mr Spink's nomination was made yesterday.

Mr Tilbrook added that in many ways the Police and Crime Commissioner election was for a ‘Boris’ or ‘Ken’ style Mayor of Essex.

Robin Tilbrook said: “In many ways this election is for a ‘Boris’ or ‘Ken’ style Mayor of Essex. The winner will have a very important job to do in setting the policies, priorities, budgets and direction of not only policing in Essex, but also Essex' Fire Service too.

“I am delighted that Essex is going to have Bob Spink standing in this election. Bob is a really strong candidate who has a very real opportunity to win this very important executive post.

“This role needs someone of Bob’s experience. Bob has been in the forces with ‘exemplary’ service and an Engineer and leading Management Consultant. He has also been a Police Authority Member, a County Councillor and a Police Cells Lay Visitor.

"He was also previously the hardworking MP for Essex’s Castlepoint. He was the Junior Government Home Office Minister (Police & Crime). His parliamentary chairmanships include the United Nations Assn UK, Parliamentary Science & Education Committee.

"What a fantastic and impressive c.v. to put before the people of Essex!

"I hope this election will see Bob elected and Essex policing set for a period of real and sensible reform to return our Police to their proper role of protecting us from criminals!”

Mr Tilbrook, who is also a past President of the Mid Essex Law Society, made the decision to second Bob’s nomination to be the next Essex Police Commissioner last week.

Elections for the next Essex Police Crime Commissioner are being held on May 5.