A COUNCIL chief executive whose £10,000-plus pay increase caused a row has announced he will quit.

Paul Walker, in charge of Hartlepool Council, saw his pay rise from £157,205 to £168,000 at a time when 86 jobs at his local authority were under threat.

When it was announced in February, an official at the public sector union Unison branded the increase "morally indefensible".

As a result of the row, Mr Walker agreed to take a month unpaid leave which would save the council about £13,000.

Now he has announced he will leave his post in August, when he turns 60.

Elected mayor Stuart Drummond said the move could save the council more cash. Options to be considered include sharing a chief executive with a neighbouring council, promoting someone from within or combining the mayor and chief executive's positions.

He paid tribute to Mr Walker, who has 40 years experience in local government.

Mr Drummond said: "Paul is one of the best chief executives around.

"He is highly thought of in local government circles and he has been extremely good for the council and the town.

"We have worked very closely for the eight years he has been here and I think jointly we have managed to keep the council one of the best performing in the country."

Mr Walker said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in Hartlepool and have worked with some fantastic people both within and outside the council.

"Hartlepool has a reputation nationally for punching above its weight and since the day I arrived I have always been impressed by the way that everyone who works for the council pulls together to do their best for the town and its people.

"The last couple of years have been challenging but great efforts have been made to maintain as many services as possible.

"The next 12 months will be equally testing, but the council has already done a lot of work to prepare for the future.

"After 40 years in local government I am looking forward to my retirement and wish Hartlepool every success in the future."