A WEST Somerset district councillor has resigned from the Conservative Group and from his role on the Minehead Events Group.

Cllr Paul Grierson, who represents the Alcombe Ward, said he had resigned from the group for personal reasons.

He added: “I have not changed my political views – I’m still a Conservative and still a councillor for West Somerset.”

West Somerset MP Ian Liddell-Grainger said: “I am very disappointed; he has done enormous things for Alcombe and really cares about what he is doing.

“He’s a very good friend and it is a shame.”

West Somerset Council leader Tim Taylor has nominated Cllr David Sanders to take up Mr Grierson’s role on the scrutiny committee.

Cllr Taylor added: “I am disappointed that Paul has left our group but he has assured me that it was for personal reasons and that it was nothing to do with group policies or leadership.