A COUNTY councillor who has represented south Redditch for more than 15 years has resigned following a period of ill health.

Conservative councillor Philip Gretton, who was chairman of the Waste Credit Governance Committee and the Audit Governance Committee at Worcestershire County Council, has taken the decision to step down, handing in his notice on November 10.

He was also chairman of the Health Overview and Scrutiny between 2003 and 2005, a member of cabinet between 2005 and 2012 and assistant to the cabinet member for social services from 2002 to 2003.

Council leader Simon Geraghty said: "We completely understand Philip's decision but will miss his valuable contribution. He has been a key member of the team throughout my time on the authority and provided invaluable support during the eight years he served as cabinet member for Adult Social Care and Communities.

He added: "I would like to thank Philip for his commitment and dedication during his time as a councillor for Worcestershire County Council, but more importantly I'd like to acknowledge the enormous empathy and understanding he has shown for the well-being of the service users and residents. Drawing on his own personal circumstances, we couldn't have asked for anyone who understood their situations more. "

Mr Gretton steps down with immediate effect.

As his resignation has come within six months of the end of his term no by-election will be held. 

The other south Redditch representative, Stuart Cross, will continue as the sitting councillor until the end of the term in May.