Maldon's MP John Whittingdale has said that the timing of Heybridge West's by-election is 'not ideal' for the Conservatives, amid controversy over Boris Johnson and other senior Conservatives receiving fines from the Metropolitan Police.

Speaking at the election count, Mr Whittingdale said: "To have this election take place so soon after the controversy surrounding fixed penalty notices is not ideal for the Conservatives.

"I hope people can focus more on the local issues rather than national ones."

The by-election was called after ex-councillor Chrisy Morris was sacked in February after he was found guilty of breaching a non-molestation order at Chelmsford Crown Court and was given an eight-month suspended prison sentence for 18 months.

Regarding Mr Morris' attendance at the count, Mr Whittingdale said: "Whoever wins tonight, I hope they will work with the council in a way that [the previous councillor] hasn't been over the last couple of years."

Mr Whittingdale told Nub News he thought Maldon District Council needed stability, as there have been 'a lot of problems' in the ward recently.