Epping Forest Councillor Holly Whitbread said she will be backing Boris Johnson to become the next Conservative Leader and Prime Minister.

Miss Whitbread, who represents Epping Lindsey and Thornwood Common ward, expressed her views on Mr Johnson on BBC’s Sunday Politics East on Sunday, June 23.

Alex Mayer, former Labour MEP for East of England and Harlow MP, Robert Halfon also appeared alongside Cllr Whitbread on Sunday nights episode.

The Tory councillor told TV presenter, Stewart White, Mr Johnson has secured her first-time leadership vote due to his “good record and character”.

She said: “It has been great to have the opportunity to talk in the media about the reasons I am backing Boris.

“I am backing Boris for three main reasons: He has committed to deliver Brexit by October 31st, deal or no deal and help rebuild trust in the democratic process.

“He led the leave campaign with great vision and I hope to see him deliver on the opportunities of post Brexit Britain.

Secondly, he can build an election winning force and beat both Corbyn and Farage - re-energising the parties grassroots.

"Finally, post Brexit, he will present a one nation, compassionate and modern conservative agenda.”

When asked whether other Conservative members would also be voting for the former Mayor of London over rival candidate Jeremy Hunt, Cllr Whitbread replied: “I think he is really popular with grassroots in terms of campaigning which as a local councillor which I think is really important.

“We have had some really bad results and we really need to be re-energised and also rebuild trust in democracy, so I think Boris is the man.”

The Tory councillor also praised Mr Johnson’s efforts as Foreign Secretary, particularly noting his work on Female Genital Mutilation and endangered species.

Upon mentioning the chances of holding a general election to select the new Prime Minister, Cllr Whitbread said she “wants to get Brexit done”.

Mr White also noted the criticism surrounding Mr Johnson’s actions and statements within his political career, to which the Epping Forest councillor acknowledged.

“I think Boris is just Boris, there’s certain things which may be seen as controversial in the past, but I think he has got such great charisma and such a great character.

“When he comes to Boris’ policies he has some pretty common-sense Conservatism which is why I really like him.”

“He can appeal to the people who voted for Farage but also the Labour voters who voted leave and actually with his common sense, pragmatic, one-nation Conservative policies he can also get some middle of the road voters as well.”