ALTON councillor Patrick Burridge has resigned from his position as leader of East Hampshire District Council.

Mr Burridge, 52, who has taken the decision due to persistent ill health, will remain as the member for Alton's Downland ward, but he is standing down from cabinet, leaving Alton with just one remaining representative at cabinet level.

Having been diagnosed recently with Parkinson's disease, Mr Burridge said the stress of his work as leader had caused an acceleration of the condition and he had been advised to reduce his stress levels.

For full story, see this week's Bordon Herald.