A Brent councillor has resigned from his position due to family reasons.

Labour councillor Michael Pavey, who represented Barnhill ward for seven years, informed Brent Council’s chief executive, Carolyn Downs, of his decision on Monday (November 27).

He resigned with immediate effect, which means there is now a vacancy for a councillor role in Barnhill.

A spokesman for Brent Labour said: “We are saddened to hear of Mikey’s difficult decision to stand down as a representative for Barnhill ward.

“He has been a longstanding and respected member of the Labour Group and we wish him the very best with the next chapter of his life.

“Although Mikey has left some big shoes to fill, we look forward to renewing the case for a strong and compassionate Labour Party representative, for our Barnhill residents and communities.”

Mr Pavey became a councillor after winning a by-election in Barnhill in May 2012.

He held several positions while serving, including deputy leader, the lead member for finance and lead member for stronger communities.

In 2016, he resigned from his position in the cabinet, citing a “different vision” to council leader Cllr Muhammed Butt over how to implement cuts in the borough.