A WYRE Forest District Councillor has decided to stand down to focus on her mental health and wellbeing.

Susie Griffiths, who represented Franche and Habberley North for Independent Health Concern, says it has been an "honour and privilege" to serve as a councillor on the ward.

She has thanked members of the progressive alliance on the council for their support.

In a statement she said: "It has been a really tough decision to make, and forever grateful to Helen and my ward colleagues Graham and Anna, alongside all my friends in the Progressive Alliance for their unwavering support.

"I have learnt so much from them, and want to thank the officers and those friends I have made in my time as a district councillor.

"I look forward to seeing the Progressive Alliance continue to go from strength to strength under Helen's leadership.

Susie Griffiths was elected councillor two and a half years ago in May 2019.

She added: "It has been an honour and privilege to serve Franche and Habberley North for Independent Health Concern, but for my own mental health and wellbeing, it is time to stand down and spend more time with my family.

"I wish my successor the best, and continue to serve our wonderful community in a kind, honest and transparent way."

Councillor Graham Ballinger, her father and Leader of Independent Health Concern, said: "She was a brilliant ward councillor and she will be missed.

"We are fully supportive of her and thank her for all the help she's done for Health Concern. She's made an impact in the short time she's been councillor."