A COUNCIL member who flouted regulations has been suspended from duties for three months.

John Carter, of North Claines Parish Council, failed to declare an interest in a planning application that directly affected him.

In direct breach of the council's code of conduct, he took part in discussions on a proposed housing development in Fernhill Heath - despite living opposite the area in question.

In his absence he was also found to have tried to influence a decision on the application at both parish and district level. The plans have since been approved.

It was left up to Wychavon District Council's standards committee yesterday to decide his fate.

Passing sentence, monitoring officer Ian Marshall, said Coun Carter had shown complete disregard for the rules.

"The tone of Coun Carter's correspondence has shown complete disrespect for his colleagues and for the rules of the council. He doesn't seem to have grasped the seriousness of the situation.

"He is a very experienced councillor and at the very least he should have been aware of the problems and should have sought advice."

In a letter to Wychavon District Council, Mr Carter made no apologies for his behaviour.

"Working on a local level, it is my duty to represent all residents and deal with their concerns," he said.

"The residents were concerned over the actions of the applicant, and these were addressed.

"I have worked as a councillor for many years, in both Malvern Hills and Wychavon, and sat on the bench as a JP.

"I have neither the time or patience to pursue this matter further and will not attend the hearing to answer futile questions."