In 2006, I was medically retired after 30 years service with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary. I was fortunate to be elected Ward Councillor in 2007 for Great Bowden and Arden and served on the Executive. In the summer of 2008 I took over as Leader of Harborough District Council.
Last month I told my colleagues on the Conservative Group of Harborough District Council that, because of the further deterioration of my health, I would not stand for re-election as a councillor in the May 2011 elections.
Within hours of this internal announcement, news of my potential departure had reached the local media and speculation was made, on possible reasons why I would not stand for re-election and therefore I felt it necessary to make a public statement.
Unfortunately, since then, I have been placed under considerable pressure by an ever increasing campaign of speculation and rumour some of which have, to be frank, questioned my original statement and my personal integrity. Whilst my illness may not be easily noticeable, it has an increasing debilitating effect on my mobility and everything I undertake.
I very much regret that, because of this, I am no longer able to give the attention and dedication to my roles as Leader of the Council and as Ward Councillor to Great Bowden and Arden that I believe my residents deserve. I have today informed the Chief Executive of my intention to resign these posts with immediate effect.
I would like to thank officials, colleagues and residents who supported me over the past years.
