THE District council's chief executive is stepping down after 32 years spent working at the authority.

Peter Haywood joined the council as an accountant in 1978 and worked his way up the managerial ladder before being appointed chief executive in August 2007.

Council leader Di Collins said: “We are grateful for Mr Haywood’s many years of service. Over the years both the Council and the wider world have seen significant changes. Mr Haywood has played a major role in making sure the council has adapted and delivers the services that local people want and need. He leaves the council in a strong position to meet the difficult challenges of the next few years.”

Mr Haywood was on a wage of £147,000 a year and details of his severance package from the council have not yet been made public.

More to follow.