Conservative Party suspends Bournemouth councillor

Mr Spencer said he had appealed against his suspension

A borough councillor in Dorset has had his Conservative Party membership suspended while an investigation takes place.

Douglas Spencer is facing allegations over his conduct as chairman of Bournemouth West Conservative Association.

The investigation follows a complaint to the party's board, although details have not been released.

Mr Spencer said he had formally appealed against the decision.

The Winton East councillor said he had submitted evidence to the board of the Conservative Party.

'Frank report'

He also said the investigation would not affect his role at Bournemouth Borough Council.

Mr Spencer said in a statement: "I have given a full and frank report on my work as chairman of the association together with the circumstances of my taking over from my predecessor, the conduct of the general election and the work of the association post the election.

"I have also submitted a number of documents in support of my submission.

"As this matter is now sub judice I shall be making no further comment until after the board has considered the matter."

The council said it had not received any complaints about Mr Spencer and no submissions had been made to the council's standards board.