Cathedrals ward councillor quits

Cllr Moore's resignation – with immediate effect – is due to the fact that she has recently taken up the position of communications adviser at the Commission for Social Care Inspection, which is politically restricted. This means she is unable to remain in public office.

"I have immensely enjoyed being a councillor and am pleased that I have had the opportunity to work for the people of Cathedrals ward," said Catriona Moore. "I am also very proud to have been part of the Liberal Democrat administration that has succeeded in making Southwark a safer and cleaner borough and improving life for all our residents.

"It is a shame that I will have to give up my role as a councillor, but this is an excellent opportunity that I could not afford to miss.

"I am looking forward to my new role and to spending more time with my family and I would like to wish my successor the best of luck."

Cllr Nick Stanton, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, added: "Catriona has been a wonderful member of the Group and a hardworking councillor in Cathedrals. She was also a highly valued member of the executive during her time as executive member for Health & Social Care. We all wish her the best in her future career."

"Catriona Moore's decision to resign at this stage will leave the residents of Cathedrals Ward without a councillor for nearly six months," commented Labour group leader Cllr Peter John. "I can't help feeling that the Lib Dems are taking this area for granted at a time when there are real probelms which need to be addressed surrounding street drinking, protecting our open spaces and improving the quality of our housing. People can be certain that if they elect a Labour team next May they will have councillors who will put the residents of this area first – and who will serve their full 4 year term."

Lib Dem councillors Danny McCarthy and Mark Pursey will continue to represent Cathedrals ward. A new Lib Dem team will shortly be selected to fight the May 2006 local elections.