WYCOMBE District Council’s head of public relations has been made redundant.

Communications manager Jeff Willmore’s job has been axed and will be replaced by a ‘policy and communications manager’ role.

The council refused to say whether the move would save cash when asked by The Bucks Free Press. It would also not comment on whether a redundancy payment is involved.

The authority would not give a salary for the axed role but said it was in a £44, 286 to £51,177 salary band. The replacement post is advertised between £48,226 - £52,960.

Spokesman Catherine Spalton said: “It is not our policy to comment on the circumstances of individual members of staff.”

She said: “Following an internal reorganisation, our democratic, legal, communications and policy functions are being brought together.

“This reorganisation has resulted in a new post for a policy and communications manager which we are currently recruiting for; the communications manager post will cease to exist.

“The policy and communications manager will be responsible for our policy, economic development and communications functions.”

More than 30 jobs were axed at the council this year through not filling empty posts and redundancies as part of a cash savings drive.

Other savings include the closure of Holywell Mead outdoor swimming pool, sale of nearby Bassetsbury Manor and axeing of public toilets.

Mr Willmore said: "I have had a rewarding and interesting career at WDC and I will have fond memories of my time here having worked with so many committed and talented colleagues.

"This extends to the Bucks Free Press who do a good job in reporting local important issues. Councils across the country are facing challenging times as are local newspapers and I wish them both every success in the future."