Newent mayor Fred Passant has decided to stand down after five years in the post.

The announcement was made at Monday's town council meeting at the Market Hall.

Speaking afterwards, he said: "I've been very happy to be the mayor but I have plenty of other irons in the fire, including the youth caf, Newent Initiative and St Mary's Church, all of which I am involved with."

Coun Passant said he would remain as a town councillor.

Looking back on his term as mayor, he said: "I think we have achieved a lot of things, particularly through the Newent Initiative, and the councillors have worked well together."

Coun Passant said he would probably propose a candidate for mayor at the council's annual meeting on Monday, May 8, at the Market House at 7.30pm.