KAREN Bavastock, the Mayor of Bishop's Castle, has announced her resignation from both the post and as a member of the town council with immediate effect.

The move will come as a shock for many people as Karen Bavastock has is nearing completion of her fourth term as mayor.

In an open letter of resignation, she says that she feels unhappy about the ways that decisions are being made.

“I have, for some months now, been very disillusioned and disappointed in the way I have been treated by some individuals and was dismayed to realise that some town councillors and members of the public had picked up on this ‘lack of respect',” said Karen Bavastock.

“However, I genuinely had thought that a corner had been turned and things seemed much better.

“Sadly, this does not seem to be the case and this letter is informing you that I am resigning from the council with immediate effect.

“It is very important, and indeed proper, that all town councillors are included in all decisions and this current situation with the town plan group has meant that I do not feel I can trust that I will be consulted about council matters as a councillor but am told of decisions which have been made away from the whole town council which I feel is completely inappropriate.

“I am sure that some people will disagree with this and dispute what I feel are very valid reasons for my resignation but I know the truth and truth and fairness and respect for other people are values I have always lived by.

“Hence, I find the current situation intolerable and can assure you that I haven’t taken this decision lightly.

“I would have liked to have seen through my fourth and final term of office, however considering comments which have been made by members of the public about the lack of transparency of the council and its operations I do not wish to have my name associated with this type of practice.”

Karen Bavastock has said that she does not rule out a return to the town council in the future.