The leader of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Reform UK-led authority is quitting his post after only months in charge.

Councillor Graham Harrison says “a recent change in his personal circumstances” is behind the decision and that he is “no longer able to commit the time required to fulfil the duties of leader”.

A replacement is expected to be appointed on Tuesday, September 15, at an extraordinary meeting of the full council.

Cllr Harrison, a former yodel delivery courier, became leader of the council two weeks after Reform UK clinched all 12 available seats at the authority’s May elections.

Councillor Graham Harrison is stepping down as Hartlepool Borough Council leader after less than four months in charge.

placeholder image — Councillor Graham Harrison is stepping down as Hartlepool Borough Council leader after less than four months in charge.

He said in a statement on Monday night: “It has been a tremendous honour and privilege to serve as Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council and to represent our town in this role.

“In recent weeks, there has been a change in my personal circumstances and, after careful consideration, I have concluded that I am no longer able to commit the time required to fulfil the duties of leader.

“The role is, in effect, a full-time commitment and I do not believe it would be right to continue if I cannot give it the time and attention it deserves.

“This has been a very difficult decision and certainly not one I have taken lightly. However, I believe it is the right decision both for me personally and for the council.

“I would like to thank my fellow councillors, council officers, partners and residents for their support during my time as leader.

“It has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated people who care passionately about Hartlepool and its future.

“While I will be stepping down as leader, I remain fully committed to public service and will continue to represent the residents of Burn Valley as one of their ward councillors. I look forward to continuing to serve the community and support the town in that capacity.”

After his appointment as council leader, Cllr Harrison – who only became a councillor himself in May – said he would be “open and honest” with residents and stressed financial stability was his top priority for the town.

No party has overall control of the authority with Reform UK occupying 15 seats, Labour 14 and independent councillors holding the remaining seven seats.