THE leader of Spelthorne Borough Council today announced he had stepped down from the role.
Councillor Frank Ayers has formally tended his resignation after less than a year in the top slot.
Councillor Robert Watts, the Conservative member representing Shepperton Town, will be elected as the new leader of Spelthorne Council on January 24.
Cllr Ayers who stepped down on Monday (January 21) said he wanted to devote more time to his wholesale, retail and food businesses.
He told Staines People: "With this economic climate that we are in now, my businesses can't afford for me to neglect them to the extent that I have since I have been leader.
"It is clear that is my priority. As much as I care about all the residents of Spelthorne, and doing the right thing, I also must do everything I can for the businesses that I run.
"I feel that it needs more of my time to make sure that I keep them afloat.
"It wasn't an easy decision, but it is a decision that I feel was right for me."
Cllr Ayers said he informed his Conservative colleagues on January 17 of his intention to step down.
He was first elected to the council in 1999 and took over from former council leader Vivienne Leighton in February 2012.
He said he will continue to serve the residents of Ashford Common as councillor for the ward.
He continued: "I've had a good working relationship with the cabinet that has served under me, with the chief executive and all his staff.
"I certainly enjoyed the time that I was leader."
