CALDERDALE Council’s director of adult and children’s services has announced his retirement.

Stuart Smith (pictured), who joined the authority in 2011, will leave in September.

Mr Smith received an OBE in this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to children.

He joined the Council at a time when the children and young people’s services directorate had been judged inadequate by Ofsted.

Under his leadership the team has gone from strength to strength and has won several national awards.

Council leader Tim Swift said: “I would like to thank Stuart for his immense contribution to the Council, and in particular improving the lives of children and young people since he joined the Council.”

He praised his “inspirational leadership” and wished him a very happy retirement.