Former council leader on criminal charge

Jim Speechley is due to appear in court next week

A former leader of Lincolnshire County Council has been charged with committing misconduct in public office.

Lincolnshire Police confirmed on Wednesday that Conservative councillor Jim Speechley has been arrested and charged.

Councillor Speechley, who represents the Crowland area, has been bailed to appear at Boston Magistrates Court next week.

He came under pressure following the publication of an independent report which criticised the way the authority had been run.

The 66-year-old resigned as leader last September after losing the support of his own party.

He was replaced by fellow Conservative councillor Ian Croft who was elected by a meeting of the full council in October.