The councillor for the Eastfield ward in Scarborough has announced his immediate resignation, meaning a by-election will have to be held.

Councillor Tony Randerson from the Social Justice Party (SJP), who has represented the ward for 12 years, said his reasons for stepping down were "very personal and certainly not political in any form".

In 2023, he resigned from his role as a councillor on the unitary authority and from the Labour Party, citing concerns about the party's political direction and leadership.

A new by-election will be held at a yet-to-be-confirmed date and North Yorkshire Council has been contacted for a comment.

Mr Randerson has already endorsed a party colleague as his preferred successor, stating that "Eastfield deserves a socialist councillor".

"During my tenure, I have overseen changes on the estate, and I look forward to the fruition of the long-awaited works yet to be completed on the High Street, along with the proposed community park on the site of the old Overdale School," he said.

'Dedicated public servant'

At the Eastfield by-election in 2023, the Liberal Democrats came second, followed by Labour and the Conservative Party.

Commenting on his resignation, a spokesperson for the Social Justice Party said: "We would like to pay tribute and heartfelt thanks to Tony Randerson who is retiring from his position as North Yorkshire Councillor. He has been a dedicated public servant both as a trade unionist and a councillor.

"He has had a great relationship with Eastfield's vibrant network of community groups, including youth facilities, football clubs, the veterans' group, and several support groups."

Councillor Randerson added that he hoped residents would remember his tenure "with fondness" and said: "If you see an old lad in a white cap, stop me and have a chat."