Whitworth councillor steps down due to health fears (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Whitworth councillor steps down due to health fears

9:30am Friday 23rd December 2011 in Whitworth By Vanessa Cornall, Reporter

A COUNCILLOR has been told he could die ‘within months’ if he continues with his civil duties.

Whitworth Mayor, Coun Dave Bradbury has been forced to hand back his mayoral chains and step down as a town councillor by his doctor after his blood pressure and cholesterol soared.

The 64-year-old long distance lorry driver, has suffered with ill health for a while, but the stress of committing to around 13 civic commitments a month and continuing with work has proved too much.

The biking enthusiast and member of Whitworth Warriors, said: “I went to visit my doctor and he told me he didn’t know how I was still alive.

“He said my cholesterol and blood pressure were so high that unless I did something radical to bring it down I would die within months.

“I have loved my time as a councillor and the mayor but the job needs someone who is retired and can commit themselves properly.

“I am a long distance lorry driver and the stress of working through the night and then dashing to a civil commitment is seriously damaging my health.

“Since May I have attended more than 80 civic appointments and it has just become too much for me.

“I need to concentrate on improving my health. I am sorry I have had to let people down.”

Coun Bradbury’s resignation automatically means his mayoress and close friend Angela Gerrad, from Waterfoot, also has to step down.

A new mayor and mayoress of Whitworth will be appointed in early January 2012.

A spokesman from Whitworth Town Council said: “The town council wishes to thank Mr Bradbury for his time in office and as a town councillor and wishes him well for the future.”