A MOTHER and son team of councillors are turning their backs on their own party, as they bid to become Tories.

Kerry Smith and Imelda Clancy, independent councillors for Nethermayne and Pitsea North West, say their belief in new Prime Minister Theresa May has convinced him to become a signed up members of the Conservative party.

Should they join, then it would mean their party “Independence from the EU” would dissolve.

Mr Smith, who also represents Westley Heights ward as a county councillor, is bidding to represent the Conservative party on both Basildon Council and Essex County Council.

Mr Smith, a long time Eurosceptic and former member of Ukip, says Mrs May’s cabinet appointments have convinced him she is “committed to Brexit.”

He said: “I think the people she has bought in are very good and committed Brexiteers, people such as Liam Fox, David Davis and Boris Johnson.

“I originally got into politics to serve my constituents and also because of my views on the European Union. The party is consistent with my views, so that’s why I am joining them.”

“We’ve approached the Tories and council leader Phil Turner, so it’s all very early stages. As there’s currently recess, there isn’t likely to be an answer until October.

“It won’t change how I serve my constituents, I am still very much in their corner whatever party I serve.”

Clancy, who became a councillor in 2014, says her support of Mrs May also proved a deciding factor.

She said: “Theresa May said ‘Brexit means Brexit’ and that is good enough for me.

“I believe in her and what she is trying to do, Kerry’s right.”

“Who knows, maybe more people could join the Tories as a result of what’s happening. Never say never.”

Should Mr Smith and Ms Clancy be successful in their bid, it will mean the Conservatives move a step closer to gaining a majority on Basildon Council, which is currently under no overall control.

The party, which currently holds 18 out of 41 seats, would only need two more seats to gain control, should Smith and Clancy defect.