MEMBER of rap group Goldie Lookin' Chain and Newport City Council member Cllr Rhys Hutchings has left the city's Labour group.

Cllr Hutchings was elected as ward member for St Julian's in 2012 but will now sit as an independent.

But Cllr Debbie Wilcox, leader of the council’s ruling Labour group, told the Argus: “Rhys came to see me yesterday to say he was disenchanted with politics in general, that he wanted to pursue his media career and did not want to be associated with any political party.

“He told me he would be leaving politics at next May’s council elections.

“I did all I could to persuade him to remain with Labour until May. It is sad but I recognise his position and respect his decision.”

Cllr Hutchings could not be reached for comment.