Whatever your political affiliation, we are sure you will join us in wishing Charles Shouler all the best.

Mr Shouler, a larger-than-life county councillor who revels in calling a spade a spade, last night said he was quitting his high-profile job as the authority’s finance chief due to “personal health reasons”.

Mr Shouler, who’ll continue to represent Bicester South, has been a constant in a fast-evolving environment and has given sterling service to the county over many years.

It is widely acknowledged he brought some financial prudence to County Hall when he took the role in 2005.

We wish him well, and look forward to hearing more from him at council meetings soon.