Kingston Council has pledged to assist police "in any way it can" following the arrest of former leader Derek Osbourne on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children.

The long-serving Liberal Democrat councillor was arrested at his home in New Malden on Tuesday, and taken to a south London police station.

He was bailed until August pending further police enquiries.

In a statement released this morning, a council spokesman said: "Derek Osbourne has resigned as leader of the council following his arrest on Tuesday on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children.

“The council understands that Coun Osbourne has been bailed until August pending a police investigation.

“Deputy leader of the council, councillor Liz Green will be acting as leader to ensure the business and work of Kingston Council can continue.

“Everyone connected with Kingston Council is shocked by this news and we will of course assist and support the police investigation in any way that we can.”

Coun Osbourne phoned his party's head office at Guildhall at 9am on Wednesday morning, and left a voice message where he resigned from the party, the leadership, and as a councillor.

His verbal resignation as leader and party member has been accepted, but to resign as councillor he must do so in writing.

His resignation letter is expected today or tomorrow.