The former Labour leader of Doncaster Council, Malcolm Glover, was arrested at his home on Wednesday.

He was later released on police bail and is expected to be charged shortly.

He stepped down from his position at Doncaster Council on Thursday, and resigned from the regional Labour Party - although he is not believed to have quit as a councillor.

Mr Glover, who says he will fight any allegations against him, became leader of the council when the "Donnygate" scandal erupted amid a major police inquiry early last year.

He was held by detectives working on Operation Danum, which is investigating alleged expenses fraud, illegal land deals and other irregularities in the council.

Mr Glover, aged 47, is one of a long list of councillors arrested as part of the operation.

Three have been jailed and others are awaiting court appearances.

South Yorkshire Police are conducting Operation Danum

His predecessor, Peter Welsh, resigned when the allegations first came to light last year.

Andrew Sharp, Labour Party regional director, said: "As leader, Malcolm Glover has played an important role bringing in a wide range of changes during a difficult period for Doncaster Council.

"He has informed me that he is standing down as leader and from the Labour Group while he contests any possible allegations, which I understand go back to a time some years ago.

"He has clearly taken the right course of action at this time."

Current deputy leader, Councillor Colin Wedd, has taken over as acting leader until the controlling Labour group has met to elect a new leader and deputy.

He said: "Whatever has happened over the last two years, this council has proved extremely resilient.

"It will continue on the course and the policies it has embarked upon. We know it is right for this authority and the people of the borough.

"Changes which have been brought in over this period will ensure the council continues to proceed in a proper manner and to provide efficient, good quality services for its residents.