SOUTHEND mayor Brian Kelly is in hospital after developing a heart problem.

Mr Kelly, who is also a councillor for Southchurch, was taken into intensive care at Southend Hospital after problems with the blood supply to his heart.

The Conservative has been moved onto the cardiac care ward as doctors decide the best treatment, but it is hoped he will be home for Christmas.

Mr Kelly’s wife, Ann, said: “He keeps changing every day, but in himself he is fine. He is waiting for them to make a decision on what’s going on and what they are going to do.

“It’s something to do with the supply of blood, but it’s not a heart attack.”

Mr Kelly underwent an operation on his foot earlier this year and has had to miss many of his official engagements since becoming mayor, including the official Southend Christmas light switch-on last month.

However, concerns were raised after he missed a meeting of the full council on Thursday, which he was due to chair.

Deputy mayor Chris Walker, who is expected to be mayor next year, has stood in for Mr Kelly at functions, including the council meeting.

Mr Walker, Conservative councillor for Eastwood Park, said: “Everyone at the council wishes Brian a speedy recovery and hopes he’ll be back with us soon.”

Council leader Nigel Holdcroft said: “I would pass my very best wishes to Brian and his family. It always seems to be particularly difficult to be ill at this time of year and I know that in addition, Brian is frustrated at being unable to fulfil his mayoral duties and desperate to get back as quickly as possible.”