THE Labour party has been left "disappointed" by the shock decision of a leading councillor to quit.

Elaine Abbot called it a day by leaving an answering machine message on the leader of the council John Collins' answering machine on Sunday evening. Coun Abbot, who has been a councillor for 10 years, said she was defecting to the socialist party, Respect, and will stand under that party for the Riversway ward in this year's local elections on June 10.

Coun Abbot said: "Tony Blair doesn't listen to the Labour party anymore and locally the party is in disarray, I haven't been to one meeting recently that hasn't ended in an argument."

Coun Collins said: "I am disappointed that Elaine has decided to leave the Labour Party, she has done a good job on the council."

Coun Pat Woods will replace Coun Abbot as portfolio holder for housing and direct services.