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Councillor quits after 'humdrum' jibe
A Lancashire councillor who branded Town Hall meetings "humdrum" has announced he will quit politics in the New Year.
Coun Jack Davenport was urged to resign earlier this year when it emerged he had been to just 54% of Preston Town Council meetings in 12 months.
And now the Labour man plans to relinquish his role as councillor for the Riversway ward two years early because he does not want to become a "ghost councillor".
The move will force a by-election for the post he has held since 2004.
The University of Central Lancashire post-graduate student, 30, said he expected to qualify as a social worker in June and would have less time to dedicate to politics.
Coun Davenport, who has dual UK and Australian nationality, has not ruled out emigrating.
Coun Davenport, who had ambitions to become an MP, said: "It's been an honour to serve the people of Riversway and Preston.
"I've have had six great years as a councillor, but I can see the pressures of my future career will put too much pressure on the time required to be an effective local councillor.
"I've no wish to become another 'ghost councillor' and the people of Riversway deserve to have a replacement when the time comes.
"I wouldn't rule out coming back to local politics because I have enjoyed it, but when you're trying to start your career you need to concentrate on that during the first few years at least."
Council leader Ken Hudson said: "I'm pleased he's made the decision so people of Riversway can be properly represented."
Broadgate resident Dave Wilson will represent Labour.
The trade unionist, 65, works for the Department of Works and Pensions and is secretary of Broadgate Residents' Action Group.
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Weather for Preston
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: -4 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 2 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: South east
