Two councillors have been excluded from a charity ball held by the mayor of Merton after alleged bad behaviour at previous events, something which is denied.

UKIP Councillors Richard Hilton and Suzanne Evans were informed of the mayor’s decision by Merton Council chief executive Ged Curran.

The annual event is a chance for the mayor Councillor Krystal Miller to raise money for her chosen charities.

Coun Miller said: "There are reasons that relate to their behaviour at previous events.

"It is the mayor’s event and at the mayor’s discretion who they invite.

"Rod and Linda Scott will be invited, it is about two individuals."

Coun Evans reacted angrily to the news.

She said: "Richard and I have been every year for the last three years.

"She has got no right to do this.

"It is not her personal party, it is a civic event that is supported and organised by council staff - she doesn’t have any right to exclude councillors.

"The only thing we have done at past mayor’s balls is spend in excess of £1,000 for charity."

An email sent by Mr Curran to Coun Evans said: "To clarify, the mayor has decided not to extend invitations to you or Coun Hilton. She will be sending invitations to all other councillors."

Coun Hilton was unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.

The annual event aims to raise money for the mayor’s chosen charities- the Polka Theatre and Home-Start Merton.

It will be held on Saturday, April 26 at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in Wimbledon.


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