A LONG-serving Worcester city councillor and former mayor has announced that she will stand down at the local elections later this year to spend more time with her family.

Popular Coun Mary Drinkwater (pictured) has represented the St Stephen ward since 1992 and served as Mayor from 2000 to 2001, during which time she entertained the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh at the Guildhall.

In the past 12 years she has served on many committees including housing, scrutiny, and planning, and until last year served as deputy leader of the council.

Although born and educated in Worcester, Coun Drinkwater spent 12 years as a leading member of Derbyshire County Council.

During that time she also taught music and drama at St Joseph's Convent in Chesterfield.

"I have been a councillor for 24 years and I have seen many changes," she said.

"I shall be sad to leave the city council, where I have made so many friends.

"I hope to continue to represent St Stephen ward on the county council and to remain a governor at St Richard's Hospice and Perdiswell School."