THE deputy leader of Colchester Council has announced he will be stepping down.

Adam Fox, who is also the leader of the Labour group, will be leaving the council at this year’s local elections in May.

The councillor, who was first elected to represent the Old Heath and Hythe ward in May 2016, is moving out of the Colchester area which prohibits him from standing for election.

Mr Fox said: “Serving as a councillor has been an immense privilege and one of the best experiences of my life.

“I feel I have made a real difference in my own neighbourhood and across Colchester.

"It’s been a tough decision to stand down but it’s the right decision for me."

The deputy leader plans to remain in politics and claims “Labour is on the up”.

During his time as the leader of the Labour group the party has grown and now has 15 seats on the council.

He added: “I’m convinced that Labour will make gains in the May elections and that’s the stepping stone to us getting success at the next General Election.

“These are difficult times and people are struggling but I believe that Colchester has some great opportunities ahead of it.”

The Labour group will elect a new leader before the May elections.