UPTON-upon-Severn has lost one of its longest serving town councillors after Eric White issued his shock resignation at a meeting.

Mr White said he had taken his decision because he was unhappy with the way that the appointment of administrative staff had been carried out.

During the most recent full council meeting, Jo Adams and Clara Clements were named the new town clerk and deputy clerk on a permanent basis, having been performing the roles in an “acting”

capacity for the last six months.

The decision, made in private session, was taken following a recommendation from the council’s staffing committee.

However Mr White said he objected to the manner the appointments had been made.

“I do not think the council is doing things properly,” he said.

“The acting clerk was appointed for six months and then the job was to be advertised, but now they have given it to her without interviewing or anything.

“I think it is underhanded and not open. This is a public job and there should be a shortlist and interview process.”

The 77-year-old, a former town mayor, had been on the council for the last 14 years, but also served a similar period during a previous stint on the former Upton Parish Council.

Upton’s deputy mayor Simon Yates confirmed Mr White had announced his intention to resign during the meeting.

“He has given many years of outstanding service to not only this council but also the former Upton District Council,” he said.

Councillor Paul Bennett said Mr White’s experience would be sorely missed. he said: “His input in terms of historical detail and remembering things that otherwise people might not be aware of has been invaluable.”