Breckland councillor Michael Wassell is to stand down from his role as leader of the council.

Mr Wassell confirmed the news today and said the decision was due to 'personal and private reasons.'

He will formally resign from his post at the next full council meeting on March 31, when a new leader of the council will be appointed.

Mr Wassell, who represents the Conservative party, continues in his role as Watton ward member, along with councillor Claire Bowes and councillor Keith Gilbert.

Mr Wassell said: 'For personal and private reasons I have made the difficult decision to step down from the role of leader of Breckland Council.

'Building on the strong foundations of the past, I'm pleased with the progress the council has continued to make during my term of office as leader – and feel that I am leaving Breckland in a good position to move forward and continue to be at the forefront of local government.'

In a statement sent to members and officers at Breckland Council today, Mr Wassell added: 'I'd like to thank you all for your support during my time as leader, which I have enjoyed tremendously, and look forward to working with you as I continue to represent the residents of Watton as their district councillor.'

Mr Wassell has been a Breckland councillor since May 9, 2011 and was appointed leader of the council on September 5, 2013.