THE LEADER of Rugby Borough Council has announced he is leaving the role after five years due to new work committments.
Coun Michael Stokes will step down on May 16, when a new leader will be voted in.
He said: “After considerable thought, at the Rugby Borough Council Conservative Group AGM held on Tuesday May 7, I took the difficult decision not to seek re-selection as Group Leader.
“As of May 1, I took on a new role with my employer which involves more responsibility and will not allow me the flexibility I feel needed to continue as Leader.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the last five years as Leader of The Council am grateful for the support I’ve received and the experiences it has given me.”
Coun Stokes replaced Craig Humphrey as the leader of the Council and the Conservative group in September 2014.
He will remain as a ward councillor for Admirals and Cawston.
