Mayor Neil Reilly has advised that he will be taking planned annual leave next week, with Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma acting in his place during that time.

While absences like these aren’t usually commented on, Mayor Reilly felt the need to given the circumstances leading up to this holiday.

“This break comes at a much needed time, as earlier this week I had a recurrence of a health issue which required paramedic support and a short stay in hospital,” he said in a statement.

“I would like to thank my fellow councillors, staff and especially the paramedics and hospital staff for their support.”

He thanked Councillor Draisma for taking on civic duties during his absence and said he looked forward to retuning to his role on Monday 18 July.