Norfolk's longest-serving council leader will stand down after receiving a life peerage from the prime minister. 

John Fuller, Conservative leader of South Norfolk Council, has confirmed he will not be putting himself forward for re-election in May.

However, he will remain a councillor for Brooke, the division he has represented on South Norfolk Council since 2003.

He said: "I've devoted 20 years of my life to public service here, but the leader is an important role and needs someone who has the time to focus and dedicate themselves to it.

"It has been the honour of my life to serve locally, but I will be standing down from my leadership role.

"I will pass the baton and wish whoever takes it on the greatest success."

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Mr Fuller, who has led the council since 2007, was announced as one of 13 new peers earlier this month.

He said the nomination had "reaffirmed his commitment to public service" throughout his career.

The father-of-two will now sit in the House of Lords, where government bills are scrutinised through reviews and amendments before they become law.