Sheffield Lib Dem leader to stand down

Councillor Colin Ross, aged 63, revealed today that he has decided not to stand for re-election as leader of the Liberal Democrats, citing 'personal reasons' for his decision.

He will remain a back bench councillor representing the Dore and Totley ward.

Coun Ross has led the Lib Dem group on Sheffield Council for two years and last week saw his party gain two seats from Labour in the Sheffield Council local election.

He said: "I set myself the task of leading the local Liberal Democrats and handing over as soon as the fortunes of the Liberal Democrats turn.

"I am pleased to see that happened last week and the Liberal Democrat fightback in Sheffield is very much alive.

"I now want to hand the baton on to a new leader who will take a more long term view in continuing the Liberal Democrat fightback here in Sheffield. This will allow me to spend more time on myself and on my family and friends and on being a dedicated backbench councillor fighting for a fair deal for Dore and Totley"

Nick Clegg, Sheffield's Liberal Democrat MP, said: "Colin has done an excellent job leading the council group over the last two years, helping to turn around the group's fortunes.

"No other councillor elected in the all-out elections last year received as many votes as Colin, showing the huge support he enjoys from his constituents whom he has served so well over so many years.

"Even though Colin is standing down as leader, he will continue to serve the people of Sheffield as a local councillor and his huge experience will continue to be felt in the Town Hall. "