JOHN Metcalfe is to leave the Isle of Wight Council after six years as chief executive and nearly a quarter of a century of service for the local authority.

He has emailed council members with his news. In his letter, shared with the County Press, he said it was a 'difficult decision' to move on.

He was the highest paid officer, last year earning £132,358, plus £250 classed as 'other', equalling £132,608. His pension of £31,104 took the cost to taxpayers to £163,712.

He said: "I will always be grateful for the many wonderful opportunities and experiences I have had working for the council and will look back on my years here with much pride and fondness.

"I hope you will feel that I leave the council in a better place than when I started in my role as chief executive."

He paid tribute to the 'many wonderful officers' and said he hoped members would 'continue to cherish and nurture them as I have tried to do over the last six years'.

His letter says he will take up the role of chief executive with Cumbria County Council, subject to agreement of the council at their meeting today.

Following a meeting of the committee on January 5, Cumbria County Council launched a recruitment call for its new CEO. The new head of paid service will serve the council until the new authorities officially take over in March 2023.

The salary is £170,000 with up to £8,000 relocation allowance plus local government terms and conditions.

Council leader, Cllr Lora Peacey Wilcox, said John had been a dedicated servant to the council.

She said: "As chief executive and with his outstanding support, the council is more sustainable and innovative than ever it has been, and is well placed to take advantage of the opportunities ahead to improve the quality of life for Islanders.

"I am grateful for all of John’s work in the time I have been leader and have valued all of his support and guidance to me and my colleagues, he hasn’t just been my rock, he's been my mountain.

"As a result, we now have a clear corporate plan that sets out what we aim to achieve over the life of this council and we will shortly agree another balanced budget and medium term financial plan to deliver on our wider aspirations."

A detailed announcement will be made shortly regarding management of the council.