Councillor Ben Ingham, who recently resigned as Independent leader of East Devon District Council, has now rejoined the Conservative Group in a bid to 'help with recovery efforts' following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Leader of East Devon District Council Conservative Group, Councillor Andrew Moulding, is said to have 'warmly welcomed' his return to the group with immediate effect.

He commented: "Ben is a highly respected and valued member of EDDC who I have known and worked with for too many years to remember.

"He brings invaluable experience, knowledge insight and nous to our group, where he will make a valuable contribution to the East Devon community and is a first class ward member.

"As a party we are a 'broad church of interest', both locally and nationally. We look forward to welcoming more like-minded members to the group in due course."

Councillor Ben Ingham said: "Following the resignation of the Independent Cabinet and the dissolving of the Independent Group, I wish to continue serving our communities throughout East Devon to the best of my ability.

"Without a doubt that is best done through the Conservative Party who will be called upon to help sort out our Local Government recovery efforts to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"I look forward to the chance of participating in that and making a positive contribution."