AN EX-serviceman who quit his council role after three months has slammed critics for questioning his commitment.

Stephen Harriss emailed a letter of resignation to Harwich Town Council earlier this month giving his reasons for standing down.

He had been elected in May as a Conservative councillor for Harwich West Ward.

But he has come under fire for leaving his post so soon, with Labour councillor Ivan Henderson saying he could not commit himself to the role and was not committed.

"I'm disappointed he questioned my commitment having served 26 years in the army for Queen and country," Mr Harriss said.

He has spoke out about his reasons for leaving.

He said: "I was honoured to take up the role but found that with my work commitments I was unable to maintain it.

"Also, we have 9,000 soldiers living on the streets at the moment and we are bringing in immigrants, which is fine we need to give assistance to people, but we need to help the soldiers.

"I'm still a Conservative but I'm just frustrated soldiers have to rely on charities for support."

Mr Harriss added that he was also disheartened with the lack of power and voice the town council has.

The 44-year-old did not rule out standing as a councillor in the future, but said he would only do it if the council had more influence.