COUNCILLORS serving under the UKIP banner on Forest of Dean local authority are to hold an emergency meeting of their group next Tuesday after the announcement that far right activist Tommy Robinson has got a job as a special advisor to their national organisation.

The group meeting will come just two days after the National Executive Committee of UKIP also hold a meeting on the subject this Sunday.

And the latest controversy surrounding the party could mean certain councillors considering what to do as party representatives on the authority.

Former English Defence League leader Mr Robinson – real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon - was hired by UKIP leader Gerard Batten last week, leading to ‘dismay’ among their contingent of councillors in the Forest.

Mr Batten, who is believed to be lined-up to visit Parkend in the New Year to kick-off UKIP’s local elections campaign, said he ‘looked forward to working with him’ after saying that Mr Robinson would be an advisor.

The Forest of Dean Council’s five UKIP members on the district council are Cllrs Richard Leppington, Alan Grant, Carol Harris, Martin Hill and Jim Simpson.

Of these, Cllr Jim Simpson said: “I cannot comment at the moment,” when approached by The Forester to answer questions.

However, UKIP’s two Cabinet members, Cllr Alan Grant, the member for planning policy and health and wellbeing, and Cllr Richard Leppington, who is the member for development, asset management, infrastructure and housing, explained their current views on the appointment.

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