Labour's bid to unseat a Conservative MP at the next election has suffered its first blow after a senior party official of the constituency party defected to the Tories. 

In a parting shot, Sanjib Bhattacharjee, former chair of Ilford North constituency Labour Party, slammed the national party leadership as he declared his support for Lee Scott's bid to retain his seat. 

Mr Bhattacharjee who unsuccessfully stood as a Labour candidate in Barkingside ward in 2010, accused Labour of "constantly failing to address" issues on the economy, security, and immigration.

He said: "I do not feel connected with the party any longer and can no longer defend Ed Miliband and Ed Balls.  

"The May 2015 General Election is the most important election in a generation.

"Letting Ed Miliband into Number 10 could trigger economic chaos that would destroy jobs and destroy livelihoods."

"I have decided to join the Conservative Party to support our local MP Lee Scott whose winning is vital to see the strongest and the best leader to represent the UK – David Cameron."

Mr Scott has been representing constituents in Ilford North which covers Ilford North, Barkingside, Gants Hill and Woodford Bridge, for 10 years.

Mr Bhattacharjee predicted Labour would suffer serious losses in May's election.

Redbridge council’s deputy leader, councillor Wes Streeting is standing for Labour in Ilford North.

Cllr Streeting said: "I find the leap from Labour to Conservative really bizarre, and his reasoning quite puzzling.  

"This will not send any major shockwaves ahead of the election. Defections happen, it was a personal choice and I wish him well." 

Redbridge Conservative leader Cllr Paul Canal said Mr Bhattacharjee's endorsement of Mr Scott was a "damning indictment of Wes Streeting and his campaign."