Council leader to step down over health concerns

Tony Johnson has been a Labour representative on Cannock Chase Council for 25 years

A council leader has announced he plans to step down from the role for health reasons.

Tony Johnson said he would formally resign at Cannock Chase Council in Staffordshire later this month.

He would continue as councillor for Chadsmoor ward, he added.

His deputy, David Williams, will take over the reins as interim Labour group leader, with a new leader of the authority due to be voted in by councillors at the full council meeting on 24 September.

Johnson, 67, has served as a Labour representative on Cannock Chase Council for a combined total of 25 years over two stints.

He was first elected to the former Anglesey ward, in Hednesford, in May 1990.

He became council leader in 2023 - having previously held various roles, including cabinet member for economic development and planning.

"I went into local politics to represent my community, and I am proud to continue to do this to the best of my ability," Johnson said.

"To serve as leader of the council area in which I was born and brought up has been an absolute privilege and something I had not set out to do."

He said he had discussed his decision with his family and that he had to listen to his body and the advice of doctors.

"I am sorry to leave leading the council at such a challenging time in local politics but will remain as a backbench councillor and offer my full support to our administration as it navigates the future," he said.

He added his thanks to colleagues and council officers.