A Three Rivers Liberal Democrat councillor has defected to another party due to holding “incompatible” views.

Alison Wall became a councillor for the Durrants Ward in Croxley Green in 2014 – despite voting Conservative on a national basis.

She wanted to get involved in the party as she felt the Lib Dems were doing “good work” locally.

However, Ms Wall says “a lot has changed” since she joined and she would rather serve her constituency in the party she is aligned to until her term ends in May 2019.

She said: “I have not made this decision lightly and want to do what is best for Croxley residents. I remain hugely supportive of my fellow Croxley councillors but I do not want to be part of the Liberal Democrat culture.

“My heart has always been in community work and was asked to stand for the local Lib Dem elections in 2014 by cllrs Chris Lloyd and Phil Brading - with full understanding that I was a Conservative.

“The Conservative group at Three Rivers are very welcoming and have a different environment.”

Liberal Democrat cllr and leader of the council Sara Bedford believes Ms Wall should “stand down” following her change of heart.

She said: “It has become evident in recent months that Alison holds views that are incompatible with membership of the Liberal Democrat group.

“Alison should now have the courage of her convictions and stand down to fight her seat under her new colours. There would be no cost to council taxpayers, as there is an ordinary election already scheduled for May 3.

“In the past year the Lib Dems in Three Rivers have won three by-elections, gaining two of those seats from the Conservatives. It is clear that when residents get a vote more and more are choosing the Liberal Democrats to represent them.”