TWO MEMBERS of Monmouthshire County Council have stepped down from their positions within Cabinet to pursue other interests.

Llanover Councillor Brian Hood has stepped down from his role within Adult Services as he has been elected MCC's Vice Chairman, while Llanfoist Councillor Eric Saxon has chosen to leave the cabinet to focus on other areas.

Councillor Peter Fox spoke highly of both members saying Councillor Hood has done a "fantastic service for Monmouthshire Social Services," while Councillor Saxon has been an "outstanding member throughout the years."

Independent member Councillor Simon Howarth said, "Councillor Saxon has been very supportive and has been supported by all councillors. It shows that opposition council members can work together."

He spoke of Councillor Saxon's work in installing CCTV in Abergavenny and the new recycling scheme that has recently been introduced.

Councillor Fox said it was a shame Councillor Saxon wasn't at the meeting to hear Councillor Howarth's kind words.

Councillors Geoff Burrows and Brian Jones will take over Councillors Hood and Saxon's Cabinet responsibilities.