POLICE are investigating a sexual assault claim against a south Essex Ukip MEP.

A former Ukip activist made the assault allegation against Tim Aker, which is said to have taken place in September last year in Essex.

Mr Aker, 30, has been MEP for East of England since 2014, and was previously head of Ukip’s policy unit.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Norfolk Police were contacted on April 26 with a report of a sexual assault which took place in Essex.

“Essex Police are investigating this allegation and an allegation of malicious communication relating to letters sent to a number of individuals.

“A 30-year-old man from Grays has been voluntarily interviewed and police inquiries are continuing.”

Essex Police has also confirmed it has launched a separate investigation into a leaflet which was circulated at the end of last week, relating to Mr Aker.

A force spokesman said: "Essex Police is investigating an allegation of malicious communications relating to letters being sent to a number of individuals.

"Police were contacted on Thursday, April 28 with details of the incident.

"Enquiries are continuing. Anyone who receives a letter they believe to be malicious should report it to police on 101".

Steve Crowther, chairman of UKIP, said: “I can confirm that the party looked into allegations that were put to us; but it would be inappropriate for us to comment further on something which is subject to a police investigation, until that investigation is complete.”