The leader of Oxford City Council has resigned from his post due to ill health.

Cllr Stan Taylor who is a diabetic, decided to stand down over the weekend due to the pressure of work.

The 58-year-old will continue serving as a Labour councillor for Temple Cowley until the May elections. He has been on the city council since 1991 and became council leader two years ago.

He said: "I'm a diabetic and the pressure of being leader as well as representing Temple Cowley ward has really got too much.

"I'm very sad to be standing down at such an exciting time for the city council.

"I'm very pleased to have been leader in Oxford when a new Labour Government was elected. We're able to do much more for people now and I will be able to devote more time to the people of Temple Cowley." His deputy, Maureen Christian, will act as leader until the 33-strong Labour group elects a new leader next month. She described Cllr Taylor as "an able leader who was very innovative".

Cllr Christian said: "He has great statesman-like qualities and a very good sense of humour. He was also well respected by the other parties on the council."

The result of the elections will be announced on October 15.

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