Liberal Democrat Ken Bates has resigned from the borough as he battles against depression. Mr Bates was elected in 2010 for the Alexandra Ward, and had been due to sit until 2014, however he has now decided to stand down a year early.

The by-election is almost certain to be held on the same day as the county council elections, May 2.

Andrew Cann, Liberal Democrat group leader said: “Ken Bates has been a good friend for many years. It is sad to seem him resign as a councillor.

“I know this is for the best of reasons, that he needs to concentrate on his health and he feels he is not able to perform the functions of councillor as he would wish.

“Ken has suffered from depression for many years, and I wish him all the best in resolving that. His resignation has been timed in order to minimise cost, due to the by election being able to be held on the same day as the county council election.

“I thank Ken for the excellent work he has undertaken as a councillor.”

There will also be a by-election in the Whitehouse ward on the same day – former Labour council leader David Ball is standing down because his family is preparing to move out of the area.