A UKIP councillor has asked for forgiveness from those living in his ward after it emerged he was cautioned by police for shoplifting.

As reported, newly-elected Norfolk County Council councillor Peter Georgiou admitted he was caught shoplifting from Poundstretcher in Minstergate, Thetford.

The Thetford West county councillor left the store on May 14 without paying for goods and was later visited at his home by Norfolk special constables. The matter was dealt with by way of a community resolution and he was asked not to return to the store.

Now, the 58-year-old, who won the Thetford West division by just one vote on May 3, said he is considering resigning.

The father-of-four said he was in a 'very dark area' of his life at the time of the incident and that he was 'very apologetic' and 'embarrassed'.

Speaking on BBC Radio Norfolk, he said: 'I was in a very, very dark area, I was on anti-depressants after something serious happened in my life at the time.

'I can't say what it was as the price is far too expensive. Anybody who knows me will know what I am talking about. I went into a store, took some shopping and left without paying for it. I never got arrested.'

Mr Georgiou said the matter related to homicide but he was not directly involved.

'I want people to understand that when someone is in a position like that, to try and give them a bit of forgiveness,' said Mr Georgiou.

'Why should I be judged on my past? My fellow UKIP councillors have supported me in an honoroable way and begged me not to leave almost and I've had people on my door begging me not to leave.

'To those who voted for me, from the bottom of my heart I thank you very much and I hope you understand what I went through.'

He said he was going to give himself a couple of weeks before deciding his future.

As previously reported, UKIP officals said he was not being investigated or suspended.

Meanwhile, Terry Jermy, the Labour candidate Mr Georgiou beat to the Thetford West seat, has said he thinks Mr Georgiou ought to resign.