Responding to Cllr Aaron Shotton’s earlier statement confirming his intention to step down as Leader of Flintshire County Council, Cllr Debbie Wilcox (Newport), WLGA Leader said:

“I should like to pay tribute and thank Aaron for his valuable contribution to the WLGA during recent years. He has been actively involved in representing the interests of local government through the WLGA since 2012, where he has been a key member of the leadership team as WLGA Deputy Leader and as Spokesperson for Housing. Aaron has been a committed and tireless servant for his community, for Flintshire, for North Wales and for local government nationally and his guidance and support within the WLGA will be missed.”

“It is particularly disappointing that an elected representative has decided to stand down due to the challenges of being a senior public figure at this time and the impact that it has on them and their families. I am confident however that the council will be providing Aaron and any others affected with the necessary guidance and support.”

“We would hope that Flintshire County Council is able to unify to continue to be a well governed and high performing Council and to serve its local communities. As the WLGA we will offer whatever support we can.”

Councillor Shotton has been Leader of Flintshire since May 2012 and has previously served as WLGA Spokesperson for Finance and Resources and was a WLGA representative on the Partnership Council for Wales, the LGA Executive and the LGA Resources Board.