ALAN VINCENT'S controversial reign as leader of Wyre Borough Council is over.

The banned Conservative councillor stood down last week after coming under pressure following his six-month suspension from duties for breaches of the councillors' code of conduct.

Cllr Vincent said: "Although I have had many people asking me not to step down as leader I do not believe it would be in the best interest of Wyre Borough Council for me to continue at the present time.

"I am therefore standing down to allow a new leader to be elected from the many talented councillors within the Conservative group.

"I wish my successor well and can assure he or she that they will have my full support.

"Despite some of the more lurid headlines, my conscience is clear.

"I have made a mistake in interpreting the rules in trying to help someone in a desperate plight.

"The vast majority of people who have contacted me have fully understood that, and most have expressed shock at the penalty imposed.

"These people include councillors of all political persuasions." Cllr Vincent first came to power in May 2002 and his reign has been marked by controversy.

In January last year, the council saw the departure of its chief executive, Michael Brown, who was made redundant in January 2003 after 14 years in the job, along with council secretary and solicitor, Roger Bowden. He was also attacked for the sale of Marsh Mill, one of the borough's major landmarks and the proposed sale of part of Jubilee Gardens for development. Although that deal has now been scrapped, a development on council-owned land by the gardens will go ahead.

Most recently, Cllr Vincent was attacked for council's 'weak' rating in the Comprehensive Performance Assessment, prompting an unsuccessful motion of no confidence by opposition Labour councillors.

But, although he has given up his leadership duties, Cllr Vincent has pledged to return to local government when his suspension ends next year.

He added: "I now look forward to returning to the council in six months' time to continue to serve the residents of Victoria Ward."