EIGHT of the 18 councillors on Droitwich Spa Town Council are stepping down in the upcoming election on Thursday, May 7, which will mean a major reshuffle of the council regardless of the outcome.

Councillors Ken Jennings, Linda Hobson, Paul Stevens, Mike Barratt, Anne Taft, Peter Pinfield, Edgar Harwood, and Pam Davey are all stepping down from the town council.

Mike Barratt has served on the council for 32 years, acting as mayor five times, while Anne Taft served for 12 years standing as town mayor twice.

Councillor Peter Pinfield has stood on the council three times from 1979 to 1983, from 1987 to 2003 and from 2011 to 2015, while Pam Davey served twice from 1999 to 2003 and again from 2011.

Councillor Edgar Harwood has served on the council for seven years, while Councillors Ken Jennings, Linda Hobson and Paul Stevens all joined the council at the last election four years ago, with Councillor Jennings serving as the leader of the majority party.

At a recent council meeting, town mayor Bob Brookes thanked all of the councillors stepping down for their help and encouragement over the years.

Speaking about Mike Barrett, he said: “I thank him on behalf of the town for 32 years of service,” adding to Edgar Harwood who sits in opposition: “I’ve always been impressed with your ability to give this council support when it was in the interest of the town to do so.” He also thanked Ken Jennings, saying: “His help, advice, knowledge and experience all proved invaluable.”

New councillors will be elected on May 7. For more information on the council, visit droitwichspa.gov.uk.