THE leader of Malvern Hills District Council is stepping down following a record-breaking three years in the role.

Phil Grove told the Worcester News today that he will not be seeking re-election when the council holds its annual meeting in just over a week.

There had been speculation over Coun Grove’s future as leader when the controlling Tory group called a special meeting in March for an “open exchange of views” on matters including executive leadership.

Although there was no direct challenge to Coun Grove’s leadership that night, it is understood his role would have come under pressure at tomorrow’s Conservative group meeting.

Coun Grove’s decision leaves two candidates, couns David Hughes and Paul Tuthill, standing for the group leadership, with Coun Paul Swinburn joining them in the running for deputy leader.

Whoever is chosen as Conservative group leader will then be presented to the annual council meeting on Tuesday, May 15, as candidate for council leader.

Coun Grove said: “Having been the longest serving leader has presented a huge challenge. Despite a reduction of 27 per cent in central government grant, all public front-line services have been maintained.

"MHDC has become a leaner and fitter organisation and is recognised as one of the best performing councils in the country. Relinquishing the reins now will help to maintain continuity at Malvern Hills and allow me to pursue further opportunities. The new leader of the council will have my full support as will all those who I represent in the Tenbury Wells area."

Coun Hughes said yesterday: “He's done lots of good work, and it's quite reasonable that after that length of time he's decided to step down."