Telford councillor stepping down after 17 years

Adrian Meredith, a Conservative councillor who has represented the Newport South & East ward for nearly 17 years, said he was sorry to be leaving the post, but would not miss the "childish sniping" that takes place at council meetings.

The 82-year-old Telford & Wrekin councillor made the announcement at the conclusion of the authority's recent meeting, and announced an intention to donate £1,000 to the town's Princess Royal Hospital, in admiration of their work.

The councillor handed a cheque over to the council speaker there and then, explaining he was indebted to the hospital for the treatment it had given him.

He said: "After almost 17 years the time has come to step down.

"I am 82 years of age and I have been very poorly for the last two years so I think it is time I moved over for a younger person to take my place in the job I have enjoyed so much for the past few years.

"I have enjoyed every bit of it apart from the meetings.

"There is so much childish sniping and backbiting, what the public makes of it I dread to think."

Local elections will be taking for all of Telford & Wrekin Council's wards in May.

Speaking to his fellow councillors Mr Meredith said the town's hospital deserved the support of everyone in Telford.

He said: "I have got a great deal to thank the PRH hospital for . Do not let anyone ever criticise the doctors and nurses at PRH. I owe my life to them.

"And for that reason, I will make, here and now, a donation of £1,000 which will ask the speaker to receive on behalf of the hospital."

Mr Meredith said he also considered all members of the council friend – even his political opponents.

He said: "Thank you very much for your support.

"In this chamber on this side of the room I am amongst friends, that side I am amongst colleagues. Outside of here I consider you all friends."