A Conservative councillor accused of threatening a neighbour with an imitation firearm will not stand in the up-and-coming local elections, his party has confirmed.

Nick Buckmaster, 50, of Mount Echo Drive in Chingford had the whip suspended at the beginning of the year following the incident in Janaury.

Unless he resigns, Mr Buckmaster will remain a Chingford councillor up until the elections on May 22.   

Conservative group leader Matt Davis said: "Nick Buckmaster will not be standing in May's elections.

"The decision was taken collectively by the party ealier this year and this is something any party would do in these circumstances."

A new Conservative candidate for Larkswood ward has been approved to replace Mr Buckmaster by the local government committee and ward committee.  

Millie Balkan, 22, of Chingford, is a full-time barrister's clerk in the City of London.

It is understood Ms Balkan is the youngest candidate of all three main political parties in Waltham Forest.  

Ms Balkan was chosen ahead of several other hopefuls at last month's selection meeting.

Mr Buckmaster was arrested by armed police and charged on suspicion of possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear.

He is accused of threatening Brett Stark with the weapon in College Gardens, Chingford, on January 18.

He is due to enter a plea on April 17 at Snaresbrook Crown Court.