A LONG-SERVING town clerk says he won’t be drawn on his reasons for quitting his post with immediate effect.

Geoff Fulford clocked up nearly 14 years at Leigh Town Council, but has resigned for personal reasons.

He held the post since the council was formed in 1996.

Mr Fulford said: “I have had over 13 very good years as town clerk, working with the council virtually from its formation to its current position as an effective and progressive organisation, providing a wide range of services and facilities for the local community.

“This has been achieved by the hard work and dedication of all the councillors over the years. I have been very privileged to be able to work with them and pay tribute to their energy and commitment.

“Additionally, I would like to place on record my thanks to these councillors, the residents of Leigh and the council’s staff who have made my working life so enjoyable for many years.”

Mr Fulford said his personal reasons for leaving had to remain so, and wished the council and the staff the very best for the future.

Margaret Cotgrove, chairman of the council, paid tribute to him.

She said: “He has been our rock. We have all relied on Geoff for his sound advice and guidance.

“He has worked tirelessly for the council and the people of Leigh for many years.

“He will be sadly missed and we all wish him the very best in the future.”

Hilary Davison, former council chairman, said: “I am really going to miss him. It will be very different without Geoff and we are still taking it in.

“We will carry on, but Geoff has been part of the council almost since it was formed and we will all miss him.”

Fellow councillor Peter Dolby added: “I am very sad for Leigh that Geoff has resigned.

“He has been a brilliant town clerk for many years and it’s going to be extremely difficult to replace him.”