A south Bucks council leader has resigned for “personal reasons”.

Councillor Ralph Bagge, South Bucks District Council leader, has announced he will be stepping down with “immediate effect”.

He said: “Whilst I have very much enjoyed my time as leader of the council, it has become increasingly clear to me that given my numerous other personal and business commitments, I can no longer devote the time to continue to fulfil the role of leader in the manner I would wish.

“However I remain committed to ensuring the best interests of South Bucks residents are served by the council.”

A new leader will be elected at the next council meeting, for which a date is expected to be confirmed soon.

Deputy leader Nick Naylor, who will take over in the interim, said: “I would like to place on record my thanks for Ralph's hard work and dedication as leader and for everything he has achieved for the residents of the district.”

Cllr Bagge will remain a district councillor for Stoke Poges. He is also the chairman of Stoke Poges Parish Council and a Bucks County councillor for the Stoke Poges and Wexham division.