A councillor has dismissed rumours he has left for Spain and vowed to continue serving people living in his ward.

Rumours had been circulating that independent councillor Chris Greaves (pictured) had sold his Menston home and moved to the continent permanently, but would still remain a Wharfedale ward councillor.

Next week Coun Glen Miller, leader of the Conservative group at Bradford Council, will even pose a question to council leader Ian Greenwood about councillors living in Spain, as the stories about Coun Greaves persisted.

But last night, the former chairman of Metro and a Tory councillor until last year, confirmed he had sold his Menston home and bought a Spanish property, but insists he will continue to spend time in his ward and is looking for a permanent living arrangements in the area.

“We’re buying a retirement home in Spain,” Coun Greaves said. “We’ve also got a family property in London and until we decide what we’re sorting out locally in Bradford, we’ve got friends and relatives we’re staying with. Saying I’ve ‘done a runner’ is very far from the truth.

“Yes, we are spending part of the time in Spain, part of the time in London and part of the time in the district.

“I fully intend to carry on attending all council meetings as required.

“Nowadays, everything’s done by e-mail and by phone and the only thing you need to go into City Hall for is an actual meeting, which I am doing and I will continue to do.”

According to the agenda for next Tuesday’s full council meeting, Coun Miller will question Coun Greenwood about Coun Greaves. “Does the leader of the Council believe that a councillor can fulfil their responsibilities to their ward and the wider district, whilst residing in Spain?” he will ask.