A HEXHAM councillor has resigned.

Coun. Cath Homer, who has represented Hexham East on Northumberland County Council since 2013, has resigned from the post with immediate effect.

She said: "It has been the pride of my life to be the elected member for Hexham East since 2013 and it has been a role I have fully embraced.

"As you’d expect in local politics there have been achievements and disappointments however the satisfaction I have gained in being able to help individuals and organisations and make what I believe has been a positive difference to Hexham has been wonderful."

But Coun. Homer also spoke of a 'sustained period of false allegations' she claimed to have been subjected to, and said she has felt unsupported by the authority.

She said: "This has been a difficult and distressing time but when this has such a profound effect on my family too it is time to call it a day. With a heavy heart I am therefore resigning from this post with immediate effect.

"I wish to thank all of the residents of Hexham East for their support over the last eight years, many of whom have now become friends and I wish the various organisations I have been directly involved with or have helped along the way, the very best in the future."

Northumberland County Council has been approached for comment.

More to follow.