MP Lee Dillon steps down as councillor in Thatcham

After nearly two decades as a local councillor for Thatcham, Newbury’s Liberal Democrat MP Lee Dillon has confirmed he will stand down from his seats on West Berkshire Council and Thatcham Town Council.

Mr Dillon, who was last year elected as the Member of Parliament for the constituency, will now concentrate on representing the area in Westminster.

“Serving my hometown as a councillor has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” he said.

“Together, we’ve navigated many challenges, and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved for Thatcham.”

West Berkshire Council leader Jeff Brooks paid tribute, saying: “Lee has been a tremendously effective councillor at both Thatcham Town and West Berkshire Councils.

“He must now concentrate on making a real difference to our district through his work at Westminster and we will continue our excellent symbiotic relationship with him as the MP, improving our lovely area for all our residents.”

By-elections will be held to fill Mr Dillon’s positions.

The MP has endorsed the Liberal Democrat candidates, Tom McCann and Mark Thomas.

Mr McCann has been a Thatcham town councillor since 2023 and is the incumbent leader of the council.

Mr Thomas, a long-time Thatcham resident, is chairman of the Old Bluecoat School charity and a volunteer at the West Berks Foodbank.

“Tom and Mark are dedicated local champions who will be alongside me in fighting as your MP for the issues that matter most, whether that is healthcare or making sure our environment is safe,” said Mr Dillon.

“The Conservatives have a history of taking Thatcham for granted. We can't go back to that.”