ONE of Wirral’s most senior politicians has announced he is to stand down.

Cllr Matthew Patrick has accepted a job in London and so will leave his post as Wirral Council’s cabinet member for environment as well as his local seat, meaning a by-election will now take place in his Upton ward.

Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said Cllr Patrick will leave his post in “early October”, and thanked him for his “hard work and contribution”.

In a letter penned to all Labour councillors, Cllr Patrick said: “Since October 2013, I have been honoured to represent Upton, Woodchurch and Overchurch as a Labour Councillor. It has been a privilege to work with councillors, community leaders, and members to fight against damaging Tory austerity and champion positive change for Wirral.

“Over two years ago I was re-elected to serve and was committed to continue our fight against Tory austerity for my full term. Recently, a job opportunity became available in London that would allow me to continue to stand up for values of decency, openness and fairness.

“I have accepted that opportunity and, as such, sadly I have no choice but to stand down from the council. I will be leaving in early October.”

He described it as an “enormous privilege” to represent his ward over the years, as well as the cabinet in what he described as “very difficult times”.

He added: “I am deeply proud of our work locally. I want to say thank you to my colleagues on the council, past and present, who have led by example in serving their communities and supported me in better serving mine. I have had the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated and principled people who champion Labour values and live Labour values.

“I want to wish everyone the very best of luck going forward. Thank you for everything.”

In Cllr Davies’ briefing to Labour members about the decision, he said: “I would like to thank Matthew for his hard work and contribution to the council, cabinet, the Labour group and the residents of Upton ward. I’m sure you would want to join me in wishing Matthew every success in his new career.”

Replacing him in his role as cabinet member for environment will be Cllr Anita Leech.

A date for the by-election to replace Cllr Patrick is yet to be announced.