A COUNCILLOR says she is going to step down at the end of her current term because she wants to focus on other community work.

Jane Micklethwaite, the mayor of Millom, has been a member of the town council since 2015 and has announced she will step aside in May.

She said she would be able to serve the community better by working with voluntary groups.

Mrs Micklethwaite, 55, said: "I have enjoyed my time this year as mayor carrying out my ceremonial duties.

"It has been great being the first port of call my residents in Millom.

"People have come to my surgeries and I have tried to help them as best I can or refer them somewhere else.

"People in Millom need someone to represent them and support the community.

"Otherwise people would have to go district or council councillors who might not be able to represent their best interests."

Mrs Micklethwaite also works for Citizens Advice in Millom and said she was satisfied with how she was able to help people in that role.

She said she would look at more volunteering options such as being a governor for a primary school.

"I just feel I can be more effective behind the scenes with my voluntary work," she said.

The mayor urged others to step forward and take her place.

She said: "I think it is really important that people step up to replace me and I would encourage people to do that.

"You don't have to be a member of a political party.

"It is a great chance to represent Millom.

"We have to connect with the grassroots of the community."

There are 15 members of Millom Town Council.

Residents will get the chance to cast their vote on councillors for the next four-year term at the local government elections in May.

Mrs Micklethwaite represents the Holborn Hill ward on Millom Town Council.