Essex: New Leader At County Hall In May

The leader of Essex County Council has announced he is standing down this year when his term as councillor ends.

Peter Martin confirmed he will not be seeking re-election at the County Council Elections on 2 May.

He said: "I will have completed 24 years as a county councillor, the last three as Leader, and I will reach the age of 69 next year.

"This seems a good time for me to pursue other interests including spending more time with my wife, children and grandchildren.

"I am fully committed to all the policies of the County Council and I feel that the Council is in good shape to face the challenges that lie ahead over the next few years."

Cllr Martin became leader of Essex County Council following Lord Hanningfield's resignation in 2010.