THE Tory candidate to be Essex’s next police and crime commissioner has stepped down from his role as a county council cabinet member to focus on his election campaign.

Roger Hirst had been councillor responsible for transport, planning and environment.

But he has been selected as the Tory choice to succeed current PCC Nick Alston, who is stepping down after four years in the role.

Mr Hirst, who will continue as councillor for Brentwood Hutton ward, will compete against Ukip’s Bob Spink and independent Martin Terry in May’s PCC election.

Labour has not yet announced its candidate.

Graham Butland, councillor for Braintree Town, will join the cabinet after Mr Hirst’s resignation.