Brent councillor lives 70 miles away

A Brent councillor is facing demands to step down after moving 70 miles away from his constituents.

Vicar David Clues remains a Liberal Democrat member for Dudden Hill ward despite leaving his post at St Mary's Church in Neasden Lane, Willesden, last month.

The authority's leader has now demanded a by-election after the priest moved out of the borough to a new parish at Bartholomew's Church in Brighton.

In the meantime Mr Clues, described as a "very charismatic" community leader, can continue to claim an annual allowance of £7,974 provided he attends one meeting every six months.

Ann John, Brent council leader said: "It is ludicrous. The honourable thing to do is to fight a by-election. It's very difficult to do the job from such a great distance."