The former leader of Kingston Council has issued his first public statement since his arrest last week on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children.

Solicitors acting for Derek Osbourne, who resigned as leader and as a Liberal Democrat councillor on Wednesday, said their client was "anxious to assist in resolving this matter".

Phil Smith, from Tuckers Solicitors in London, said:"My client has fully co-operated with the police investigation since he was unexpectedly arrested on Tuesday morning.

"He is anxious to assist in resolving this matter."

Mr Osbourne was arrested on Tuesday at his home in New Malden, and resigned from the council the following day.

A by-election for his vacant council seat will be held on July 25, with the Liberal Democrats expected to announce a new leader next Monday, June 24.