A vacancy has opened up on Shotley parish council after an experienced councillor decided to step aside to allow new blood come in to help the community.

Derek Davis has stepped down as a parish councillor, but will continue in his role as Babergh district councillor to serve the whole of Shotley and Erwarton as Ganges ward member.

His decision leaves the door open for other people who feel they can do a good job on the Shotley parish council and play a proactive role in matters to benefit the community.

Cllr Davis joined the parish council in 2019, and was also elected for a second term as Babergh district councillor after the boundaries were reconfigured and the seat was renamed Ganges ward.

"It was very encouraging to see two very good candidates come forward during the last co-option process and I felt it would be sensible for me to step aside and allow new blood to come aboard and serve the parish council," said Cllr Davis.

"Obviously, it will come down to the election process, or if that doesn't happen then it is for for the current members to co-opt a new member, but I'm confident their are many good people on Shotley that can step up and serve the community.

"It also gives those who think they can do a better job than the current council an opportunity to put themselves in the hot seat and prove it."

To call an election contact Babergh here...