AN MP is resigning her seat as a councillor.

Jill Mortimer, the MP for Hartlepool, is stepping down from Hambleton District Council.

She was the member for the Raskelf and White Horse Ward.

Read more: Commissioner Philip Allott's resignation delay reveals 'flaw'

It means a by-election will be held at the same time as one for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, which is taking place following the resignation of Philip Allott.

Ms Mortimer said:  “I’ve always said that I would not impose the cost of a by-election on local taxpayers, but as there will be a Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner by-election across North Yorkshire, it makes sense to replace me at the same time, at no additional cost”.

 She said she would be resigning with immediate effect.

She added: “I will also make the final charitable donation from my councillor’s allowance.”

Mr Allott resigned on Thursday, two weeks after comments he made about women in the wake of the Sarah Everard case sparked a furious backlash.

He quit after hundreds of complaints and a vote of no confidence by the county’s Police, Fire and Crime Panel on Thursday morning.

The date for the by-election is yet to be set.

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