BILL Etheridge has been named as UKIP's sports spokesman by new leader Henry Bolton.

The Sedgley councillor and West Midlands MEP said his new role promoting UK sport was going to be "a labour of love".

Cllr Etheridge, who was formerly the purple party's defence spokesman, continued: “The West Midlands is blessed with some of the greatest football teams in the country.

“Aston Villa are former European Cup winners. They, West Brom and Wolves have all won the First Division, and Birmingham City recently won the League Cup.

“In cricket, Warwickshire and Worcestershire have a long history of providing players for the England team.

“Sport is an excellent way of teaching competitiveness in a friendly environment as well as being the antidote to the lethargy caused by modern technology."

Meanwhile, West Midlands MEP Jim Carver has been named as assistant deputy leader.

He said he was "delighted" to accept the post and looked forward to working alongside Mr Bolton, deputy leader Margot Parker and his fellow assistant deputy Mike Hookem, to prepare the party for "the challenges ahead".

Mr Carver added: "We will strive to ensure the party continues to have Brexit at its heart and also broad and appealing domestic policies that the branches and membership can focus on in readiness for next year’s local elections."