A councillor representing Cannon Hill has quit a year after being voted in.

Mark Kenny announced his resignation as Labour councillor for the ward on Tuesday, citing health reasons as a major factor.

"It is with regret and sadness that I am stepping down as councillor for the ward of Cannon Hill," a statement from the former councillor read.

"A year ago I was very proud to be elected by the residents of the ward, and I am proud to have represented them to the best of my ability. I love the community and will miss representing it.

"However, being a councillor involves long hours and hard work, often unseen, and the job has taken its toll on my health."

Mr Kenny was narrowly voted in last year, alongside two fellow Cannon Hill councillors - Labour's Pauline Cowpar and Conservative Nick McLean.

Councillor McLean, who is also the Conservative group leader said he was disappointed to see Mr Kenny resign.

"We may represent different parties, but we both wanted what is best for Cannon Hill residents," he said.

"His resignation, means Mark Kenny will be the second Labour councillor to be forced out of Cannon Hill ward in a little over 12 months and is yet more evidence of the divisions caused by a Momentum takeover within Wimbledon Labour.

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"Cllr Alambritis is clearly unable to heal the divisions within his group with his opponents now quite openly moving against him.

"Residents in Cannon Hill need a strong community representative who will focus on local issues.

"And Merton needs a united council, not one split on petty ideological struggles. It’s clearer than ever that only the Merton Conservatives can provide these.”

The previous resignation that Mr McLean refers to is that of former Cannon Hill ward councillor and current councillor for Graveney, Tobin Byers.

Mr Kenny said representing his community had been a proud achievement.

"It is not a decision I have taken lightly or without a great deal of discussion with my family," he added.

"I am very proud to have been part of a Labour council under the leadership of Councillor Stephen Alambritis, carrying out policies for the good of all Merton residents.

"Cannon Hill is a great place, and I wish all its residents well for the future."

As a result of the resignation, a by-election will now be held to fill the empty seat.

The nomination process for candidates opens on May 16. The deadline for nominations is at 4pm on Thursday, May 23 with candidates announced the next day.

The by-election will take place on June 20.