It is with very mixed feelings that we announce that Councillor Michael Veitch will be standing down at next year's Council elections. East Lothian's loss will be very much Northumberland's gain as Michael is to become a minister.
Most recently Michael has been Conservative Councillor for Dunbar and East Linton, in addition to being Deputy Leader of the Council in addition to Cabinet Spokesman for Roads and Transport.
Announcing his intention to stand down, Michael said:
“I would wish, through the pages of your paper, to inform my constituents in Dunbar and East Linton ward that I have recently taken the very hard decision not to contest the next council elections in May 2017. Having embarked upon part time theological training last year, I will be moving with my family to Northumberland to become a minister during 2017.
"It has been, and remains, a huge honour to represent my home community on East Lothian Council since May 2012.
"During that time I have sought to work tirelessly on behalf of the many communities across the ward, and can honestly say that I have enjoyed every minute. It has been a joy and pleasure to work with so many individuals and groups who are involved in the life of our community, and to play a part in the active civic life which characterises this special part of East Lothian.
"Between now and the end of my term of office next spring, I look forward to continuing to represent my constituents and working hard on their behalf. There is still much I wish to achieve for the community in the months ahead.
"I also wish my eventual successor as Conservative candidate for the ward every success, and will be working hard to help them secure a seat on the Council in the months ahead.”
We would like to pass on our very grateful thanks to Michael for working so tirelessly for the Association and his constituents alike. We would also like to wish him well as he enters this new chapter in his life.
To view Michael's announcement in the East Lothian Courier please click here.