THE new leader of Lewisham's Tories has defended his decision to dump his predecessor by email.

Councillor David Britton says Barrie Anderson had to go because the party was worried he was becoming too close to Labour.

But an angry constituent has hit out at the decision to put the boot into their "much-loved" councillor.

News Shopper reported how Cllr Anderson only discovered his demise after we urged him to check his email inbox.

The message, sent by Cllr Britton, said Cllr Anderson was guilty of "a serious breach of party discipline" by discussing possible entry into the Labour-run cabinet.

Cllr Britton told News Shopper firing his fellow Grove Park councillor was "something which had to be done".

He believes the Tories must act as an effective opposition, after the ruling Labour group lost 14 seats at the recent elections.

Cllr Britton said: "The fact Barrie has ceased to be leader reflects the new political reality in Lewisham.

"To be perceived to be helping Labour stay in power would be fatal. We need a new direction."

Residents in Grove Park, where Cllr Anderson has served for the past eight years, have been left shocked by his treatment.

Kevin Matthews, of Baring Road, said: "I cannot believe it. I think the whole thing is disgraceful.

"Barrie is a man of integrity, much-loved and a real community man. I voted for him because he works so hard for his residents."

He added: "To find this out by email is absolutely appalling. It stinks.

"To me it just seems like people are trying to make a name for themselves."


CABINET MAKE-UP

BARRIE Anderson eventually decided not to accept the offer to join Mayor Steve Bullock's new cabinet.

The mayor's new team is made up of seven Labour councillors six of whom are women.


Deputy mayor Cllr Heidi Alexander
Member for resources Cllr Helen Klier
Member for community services Cllr Chris Best
Member for children and young people Cllr Robert Massey
Champion for older people Cllr Peggy Fitzsimmons
Champion for community safety Cllr Crada Onuegbu
Member for customer services Cllr Susan Wise