A COUNCILLOR’S resignation will result in a by-election being held in the Dodworth ward, it was announced this week.

Sam Christmas, who represented the Liberal Democrats, was elected last May.

He said he took the ‘difficult’ decision to step down as a councillor due to work commitments.

Barnsley Council will now set out plans for a by-election in the Dodworth ward, with an expected polling day in December.

Barnsley Liberal Democrats are due to announce their candidate soon.

He said: "It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a ward councillor in Barnsley, representing the residents of Dodworth, Pogmoor, Gilroyd, Higham and Gawber.

“I have only been a councillor for a short amount of time and had hoped to serve residents for much longer.

“However, earlier this year, I was made redundant, and it has been a stressful and challenging time trying to find new employment.

“Thankfully I have now secured a new full-time job but unfortunately that job is not compatible with the demands of being an effective - and available - local councillor.

“I feel that my residents deserve a councillor who can represent them fully rather than one they never see.

“I have therefore made the difficult decision to stand down.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to the residents who placed their trust in me.”

Leader of the Barnsley Liberal Democrats, Coun Hannah Kitching, praised Sam’s work.

She told the Chronicle: “It has been a pleasure working with Sam on the council and I know this has been a very difficult decision for him.

“Sam has been instrumental in challenging Barnsley Labour over national issues such as the scandalous cut to pensioners’ winter fuel payments and the heartless two-child benefit cap, as well as being a fantastic local councillor for his residents.

“We are incredibly disappointed to lose him from the group but wish him all the best in his new role.”