A Watford councillor has said it is “gutting” to resign following a promotion at work.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Joe Fahmy, who served the Tudor Ward, resigned after the promotion meant he would be placed in a politically restricted role.

It means that as well as no longer serving as a councillor, Mr Fahmy will not continue to chair the Council’s Licensing Committee.

Mr Fahmy said it was not a decision he took lightly, but felt privileged to serve the community.

He said: “'It's gutting to have to resign as a councillor for Tudor ward, a community I love and have had the privilege to serve for over three years.

“Unfortunately my new job means I cannot continue to be a councillor.

“I'd like to thank my ward team, Darren Walford and Steve Johnson, for their help and the many residents I've been lucky enough to help with their issues.

“I know the Tudor Team will continue working hard for local residents all year round and will help Mayor Peter Taylor and the Liberal Democrats keep the town moving forwards.”

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said it was “sad” to lose Mr Fahmy as a councillor and thanked him for his service to the Tudor Ward.

He said: “I know that he did not want to resign but due to his promotion at work it simply wasn’t possible for him to continue in his role.”

Bill Stanton, candidate for the Tudor by-election, said: “Joe will be massive shoes to fill but I can't wait to get out onto the doorstep to speak to local residents as part of this by-election campaign.

“I love our community and have lived in the heart of it for many years so I know the issues that matter to local people.”