Bradley Stoke town councillor David Skeet has resigned.

n his letter of resignation, Mr Skeet (Conservative) explained his decision followed criticism of his poor attendance record, due to illness.

He wrote: "I feel it is the best thing for the council that I step down and make way for a person who will be a more positive and active person for the ward."

His resignation was formally announced at the last full council meeting.

Speaking on behalf of council, mayor Mark Forsyth thanked Mr Skeet for his service and wished him well for the future, adding: "At the end of the day town councillors are all volunteers and sometimes life is for living."

The vacancy has been formally advertised and a by-election will be called if requested by 10 residents of the ward within 14 working days.

It is believed the Liberal Democrats have collected 10 signatures to force a by-election and have a candidate in mind to contest the seat.

Mr Skeet is also a member of Stoke Gifford Parish Council, where he has attended at least five meetings in 2009, compared to just one during the same period in Bradley Stoke.