A FORMER leader of Bradford Council has announced her intention to step down from the authority.

Baroness Margaret Eaton, who represents Bingley Rural ward for the Conservatives, will not seek re-election when her term ends next year.

Baroness Eaton (pictured) also sits in the House of Lords and, in a letter to colleagues, she said: "Having thought the matter through carefully, and in view of the time-consuming and demanding commitments as a party whip in the House of Lords I have decided not to seek re-election."

She said it had been a difficult decision after 30 years as a councillor, adding: "I know I will feel that I have 'lost my right arm' when I am no longer directly involved in the ward and the Council."

Baroness Eaton led the Council for six years and led its Conservative group for ten years.

Conservative group leader, Councillor Simon Cooke, paid tribute to her hard work, saying: "Margaret was a wonderful example of how the job should be done."