Sheringham in shock as mayor hands in mid-term resignation

David Gooch has resigned as mayor of Sheringham in a shock move. Picture: KAREN BETHELL (Image: Archant)

David Gooch announced at a town council meeting on November 7 that he would be ceasing his duties with immediate effect, but will continue to sit as a councillor.

Mr Gooch said: 'It has become clear that I do not have the backing or the support of all members of this council.

'I would like to thank those who have supported me in what has been a very difficult past few weeks.'

A new mayor will now be elected at the council's next meeting on December 5.

Mr Gooch served as deputy mayor in 2014 before being elected as mayor in 2015, since serving consecutive terms.

Speaking without his chains of duty, the councillor also confirmed that he will no longer be attending mayoral duties which have been scheduled for the festive season.

He continued: 'I will not be turning on the Sheringham Christmas Lights, nor will I be laying the wreath on behalf of the town council on Remembrance Sunday. These duties will now fall to the new mayor or other representatives from the council until then.'

The Christmas lights event on November 17 will now see Hilary Nelson, wife of former town crier Tony Nelson, turn on the lights.

'I would like to thank my wife, who is also my PA,' added Mr Gooch.

'She has been answering the many messages and emails which have been sent to me, and has also kept me fed and watered.'

Fellow councillor Madeline Ashcroft added: 'Three years ago I proposed David Gooch as mayor, and now I second his resignation.

'I propose we take this resignation with immediate effect.'

District councillors for Sheringham Brian Hannah and Richard Shepherd also expressed their thanks to Mr Gooch.

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