Council’s Labour leader quitting to spend more time with her family

Current elected mayor Peter Davies could be deposed on May 3, when a referendum on the future of his post will be held alongside the election of members to the council.

If the mayoral system is rejected by voters, the leader of the biggest political group on the council, currently Coun Sandra Holland, would stand to become the authority’s leader.

But Coun Holland said: “I feel that the time has come for me to take a step back from the front line of politics to spend more time with my family.

“I’ve found leading Labour in Doncaster both challenging and rewarding, and hope that I’ve helped make a difference in the borough during the past three years.

“I would like to thank my council colleagues who have grown in numbers year on year as we continue to win more seats in the borough.

“I look forward to seeing more Labour councillors in the chamber after the local elections.

“I will remain on the council and continue to represent the residents of Conisbrough Ward as well as spending more time with my family.”

Labour Leader and Doncaster North MP Ed Miliband said: “I would like to thank Sandra for all the work she has done and the great dedication she’s shown throughout her time as Labour’s group leader.

“Sandra has been a strong voice in standing up for local people against the Tories and the English Democrat mayor. Whoever takes on the role after she steps down in May will have big shoes to fill.”