The leader of Dover District Council has resigned and is leaving his post immediately.

Keith Morris has also quit his seat as ward councillor, a statement from the council said.

The announcement read: "Keith Morris has today announced his resignation as leader of Dover District Council with immediate effect.

"Keith Morris also stood down as councillor for the Guston, Kingsdown and St Margaret's-at-Cliffe ward.

"Cllr Sue Chandler, deputy leader, will assume the responsibilities of the leader of the council."

Cllr Morris had been the authority's Conservative leader since October 2017, when he replaced Paul Watkins, and district member since May 2011.

He said: “I have greatly enjoyed my two years as leader of the council.

"I am leaving for purely personal reasons.

"I thank my fellow councillors and the officers of Dover District Council for their unstinting support."

Details of a by-election for his seat will be later announced.

Cllr Chandler is a Sandwich ward councillor and also a member of Kent County Council.

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