Councillor quits over 'porn' claims

Mr Campbell claims there has been a vendetta against him

A South Ayrshire councillor has resigned after his computer was used to try to access "inappropriate material" on the internet.

Councillor Robert Campbell, a former lord provost, announced his intention to step down after the whip was withdrawn by the ruling Labour group.

Mr Campbell, 65, attacked the decision by the Labour group saying there was a "smear" campaign against him.

The internet abuse came to light when systems designed to prevent staff accessing unauthorised sites indicated the computer in Mr Campbell's office had attempted to visit the sites twice in two days.

At times I have felt that there has been a personal vendetta against me

Councillor Robert Campbell

An electronic "firewall" prevented actual access to the sites.

A council source said: "The server picked it up and it was passed to the chief executive for investigation.

"He in turn passed it onto the council leader, John Baillie, to deal with it through the party machine."

In a statement, the Labour group said: "Following information received in respect of the alleged inappropriate use of council computer facilities, the party whip was withdrawn from Councillor Robert Campbell on Sunday, June 4, pending a full inquiry.

A firewall prevented access to the sites

"The group secretary has since received a letter from Councillor Campbell intimating his intention to resign from his council seat immediately."

Mr Campbell said: "I have worked tirelessly for the people of Ayr both in regional and local council level for over 18 years.

"However, the continuing 'smear' campaign waged against me within South Ayrshire Council has finally taken its toll.

"At times I have felt that there has been a personal vendetta against me and yet, with a few exceptions, I have received little or no support from my colleagues in the Labour group.

"The latest accusation continues the attack on my personal integrity and undermines my reputation as an honest politician.

"I have reached the point where my health and the well-being of my family is suffering badly, and therefore I realise that I have no option other than to resign from the council with immediate effect."

Mr Campbell resigned as lord provost in 1998 following a row over expenses.