THE former Liberal Democrat candidate for West Devon and Torridge has resigned from the party.

Adam Symons fought the seat at the 2010 election, polling more than 40% of the vote, just under 3,000 votes behind Conservative Geoffrey Cox.

Mr Symons was reported as saying he had left the party and decided to play a less active role in politics owing to changes in his family circumstances and changes in the party.

He will remain a member of Torridge District Council as an independent councillor representing the Woolsery and Clovelly ward.

A spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats said: 'Adam worked extremely hard for the constituency and we have thanked him for all his effort.

'As with official parliamentary procedure, Adam stopped being the candidate immediately following the general election.

'The local party will be starting the process soon to find a new candidate to fight for people in the Torridge and West Devon constituency.'