A FORMER Labour councillor who is facing charges of taking and possessing indecent images of children is now sitting as an Independent on West Dunbartonshire Council.

Councillor Craig Edward was elected to the Clydebank Central ward under the Scottish Labour banner as the group ousted the SNP-led council in May’s local elections.

In September, as the Post previously reported, Cllr Edward was arrested and charged with two alleged offences after a raid by police at his home in the town.

He entered no plea when he appeared at Dumbarton Sheriff Court on September 27 and was released on bail pending a further court appearance on a date yet to be confirmed.

Following enquiries made to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, the Post understands that the case against Cllr Edward on the allegations remains active.

The Post understands Cllr Edward was suspended from the Labour Party pending the conclusion of the criminal proceedings.

This means by default Cllr Edward becomes an Independent member of the council.

A spokesperson for West Dunbartonshire Council said: "Cllr Edward is a member of council and is entitled to attend meetings of the full council and any other committee or body of which he is a member."

Cllr Edward was previously the Housing and Community Services convener.

However, the Post understands he is not holding any public surgeries at the moment.

On Twitter, Cllr Edward has proclaimed himself as "the only Independent councillor at West Dunbartonshire Council".