Warren Morgan said he was proud of his record under difficult circumstances

Smears, accusations of lying and attacks on blogs and social media against him led to Warren Morgan’s resignation as the Labour leader of Brighton and Hove council last month.

The veteran councillor is one of four Labour town hall chiefs who have quit their roles in recent weeks after opposition from local left-wing activists.

Mr Morgan, 50, said that the abuse he received online had been “upsetting” and said he had blocked numerous social media accounts and avoided certain blogs. Speaking to The Times, he said: “You don’t come into politics expecting an easy ride. You expect some harsh treatment and to an extent you have to let it wash over you.” He added that “regular accusations [that] I’ve lied” were hard to stomach.