An independent councillor in Wisbech has switched allegiance to join the Conservatives because he says they are the party that is driving positive change in the town.

Councillor Rob McLaren has crossed the floor to join the Tories because he said: “In the last couple of years I have worked with the Liberal Democrats, UKIP and the Independent group in Wisbech.

“Although I have no personal animosity to most of those individuals, I have continually felt that it is the Conservative group who are actually driving positive change in this town and that it is the Conservative group who are more in line with my way of thinking.

“I have been uncomfortable on several occasions when, as part of the “opposition”, I’ve felt my colleagues were being unnecessarily negative for political reasons rather than productive ones. I got tired of political games to be honest.”

Cllr McLaren said he became a Councillor because he wanted to make things better in the town.

“For me it’s not about national politics, it is about what can actually improve the town for the people who live here.

“I came to the conclusion that I have much more in common with the local Conservatives and that I can do better work on behalf of the community as a member of their team than alongside the Independents.

“They know what they are doing and they get on with it, rather than just looking for reasons to be negative.

“I hope that the people who elected me will understand that my decision is based simply on what will be the most effective way for me to work on their behalf.”

Cllr David Oliver, leader of Wisbech Town Council welcomed Cllr McLaren to the Conservative team and said he was looking forward to working with him.

Cllr Steve Tierney, chairman of Wisbech & District Conservative Branch said: “I’ve worked with Rob before and I know he has a big heart and a real passion for helping people.

“Local Conservatives are working hard to help Wisbech be safer, more prosperous and a great place to live, for everyone, to remind people that this is the Capital of the Fens. He will be a fantastic addition to the team.”