LONG-STANDING Dawlish councillor John Petherick has announced he is resigning. 

John, who served twice as Mayor and was both a district and town councillor, has officially tendered his resignation.

First elected to the town council in 2011, John says his decision was made so he can focus on other community roles which have placed more demand on his time. 

He said he was proud of the achievements of the council and wished it every success in the future.  

Current Mayor of Dawlish, Cllr Rosie Dawson, thanked John on behalf of the council for his contributions over the past 13 years, from which the parish benefited from his experience and knowledge.  She wished him well with his other commitments.

The resignation means that a vacancy now exists in the office of town councillor for the South West Ward. 

Unless 10 or more electors in the ward submit a request to Teignbridge Council on or before April 15 for a by-election, the vacancy will be filled by co-opting a new member. 

For an election, more than one person needs to put themselves forward. 

Anyone interested in becoming a councillor, go to https://www.dawlish.gov.uk/councillors/, or contact the town clerk for more information.

Ten or more electors of South West Ward should submit a request in writing for an election to Teignbridge District Requests must be sent to the Proper Officer, Teignbridge District Council, Forde House, Brunel Road, Newton Abbot, TQ12 4XX.