THE Rochford and Southend East Labour Party has voted to back party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

The group met to decide who they would like to nominate in Labour's leadership contest.

The controversial leadership election has caused party divisions as Corbyn and rival Owen Smith strive for the top job.

However, the local group's spokesman Mike Smith said the vote had been a civilised one.

Mr Smith said: "Everything was dealt with in a very cordial fashion, and it was stressed that no abusive or heckling behaviour would be tolerated, considering the high degree of passion that has been expressed during recent weeks about the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn.

"When it came to the vote Jeremy Corbyn was nominated by 65 per cent of those present - 42 for Corbyn, 23 for Owen Smith. This represents a higher level of support than Jeremy Corbyn received nationally in last year's leadership election, which was 60 per cent."

Mr Smith added: "Since the EU Referendum, hundreds of new members have joined Southend Labour Party, and this is a sure sign that local people are becoming more politically aware and want to make a difference to their town.

"Local Labour Party members are out canvassing and leafleting every weekend to make contact with the residents in each Ward, and we have a clear understanding of the issues that concern the electorate.

Court of Appeal judges are today due to decide if 130,000 new Labour Party members should be given the right to vote in the leadership contest.