“The Conservative Group at Gloucestershire County Council has been informed of the allegations made against Councilor Nick Housden,” a Conservative spokesperson said.

“As a result, we have decided to suspend Cllr Nick Housden until further notice. “We will have no further comment at this time.”

A Carlton Club spokesperson also confirmed that Housden had resigned as director, a position he took up in March 2023, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

“The Carlton club committee has accepted the resignation of chairman Nick Housden with immediate effect,” they said.

“The club will go ahead and we look forward to continuing and welcoming members.”