Two Tories quit Rotherham Council after just five months

Emma McClure, of Anston and Woodsetts ward, and Jack Austin, of Aughton and Swallownest ward, cited changes in family and business circumstances.

Both were elected this year as the Tories’ record showing in the polls meant they went from zero to 20 seats in the council chamber.

Ms McClure said: “Since my election in May, my family circumstances have changed, leading to an increase in caring responsibilities that are regrettably incompatible with being a ward councillor.”

Mr Austin said: “In the last couple of months, pressures on my engineering business have increased substantially due to supply chain issues. 

“Securing my business and the jobs within it now requires more foreign travel and I am unable to give the time and attention to being a councillor that local people deserve.”

Tory group leader Cllr Emily Barley said: “We were delighted when Emma and Jack were elected in May. 

“They each brought a valuable mix of business and life experience to the role of councillor, as well as dedication to the communities they served. We are sad to lose them and wish them both the very best.

“We know that in the past, Rotherham councillors from other parties have remained in post and claiming allowances whilst doing nothing, in some cases until they were forcibly removed for non-attendance. 

“We think that is wrong and that Emma and Jack are doing the right thing by resigning as soon as it became clear that they could not fulfil the role to the best of their abilities. 

“We are now preparing for by-elections in both wards, and will shortly announce strong local candidates to replace Emma and Jack.”