The leader of a hyper-local political party in Radcliffe has stepped down from his position saying the job has ‘taken its toll.’

Cllr James Mason, who represents the Radcliffe East ward for Radcliffe First announced his resignation as party leader yesterday.

Cllr Mason will remain in his seat as a councillor for the Radcliffe ward.

Radcliffe West representative Cllr Mike Smith will step up as the party’s leader with Cllr Carol Birchmore for Radcliffe East acting as deputy leader.

Cllr Mason said: “Leading a group as talented and hardworking as this takes it’s toll and I feel that the time is right to step back whilst continuing to work for my residents as a councillor.

“The job is not yet done and I will continue to work with the team to deliver the best outcomes for our town.

“In an ideal world there would be no need for Radcliffe First, but we do not live in such a place. Until then I will support this party, it’s aims and objectives, and work towards a better future for Radcliffe”.

Party leader and committee member Judi Sheppard announced the news.

She said: “After a lot of soul-searching, Cllr James Mason has decided to step down as Party Leader in Council and hand over the baton. This is not a decision that has been taken lightly.

"Since May 2019, he had been the lone voice, joined by Mike then Carol and five more Radcliffe First Councillors in May 2022.

“That success is more than we could have hoped for in the beginning and comes from the hard work and support that the Radcliffe Community has shown for us all.”

“Cllr Mike Smith will become Party Leader in Council and Cllr Carol Birchmore with take on the role of deputy leader.

“I’m sure that you will join me in thanking James for all his hard work and support since starting the party.

"Without his tremendous determination RF would not have started let alone achieve success.

“I personally thank him for his friendship, dedication and encouragement. We couldn’t have done it without you James.

“Looking forward to the next chapter and good luck to Mike and Carol within their new roles.”

“I’m sure that you will join me in thanking James for all his hard work and support since starting the party.

"Without his tremendous determination RF would not have started let alone achieve success.

“I personally thank him for his friendship, dedication and encouragement. We couldn’t have done it without you James.

“Looking forward to the next chapter and good luck to Mike and Carol within their new roles.”