LONG-SERVING Chard councillor Tony Prior has announced he will not be standing for re-election.

Cllr Prior, first elected in 1979, has been involved in a great many projects, schemes and decisions in the town.

He told the Chard Town Guide newsletter: “Over 30 years as a councillor has had its ups and downs. It has been challenging, hard work, stressful but also rewarding and satisfying.

“I would like to thank the electors of Holyrood Ward (1979-2006) and Crimchard Ward (from 2010) for electing me as one of their councillors on nine occasions.

“When I stood for election in Holyrood Ward in 1979 I never dreamed that four years later I would have the honour and the privilege of being Mayor of Chard and also the leader of the district council.”

Mr Prior is not leaving the town and will continue in his voluntary roles with the Crowshute Centre and the League of Friends of Chard and District Hospital.