A "VULNERABLE and leaderless" Bromsgrove Council is doing its best to look to the future after the resignation of its leader, Dennis Norton.

Mr Norton's sudden departure caused shock waves among colleagues at the Council House, some of whom told the Advertiser they had no inkling he was planning to resign.

Bromsgrove and Alvechurch councillor Jean Luck said: "I can't understand it. I'm shocked and sorry he decided to do this at such a critical time in our recovery."

The authority is still in a position of voluntary engagement after Mr Norton made the brave decision to seek special help from the Government.

His belief the recovery plan was working helped him make up his mind to resign.

But Mrs Luck said: "We are still in a very vulnerable position.

"It's a great pity he decided to go at this point in time when his leadership is very much needed."

In a recent statement Mr Norton, 72, said he believed now was the right time to step aside for someone younger after three-and-a-half years of leadership.

The person who will step into Mr Norton's shoes will be elected at a special meeting of the full council next Wednesday.