Melton councillor to stand down due to health issues

Councillor Pearson has been the ward member for eight years after being elected at both the 2013 and 2017 ballots.

He is also a Melton borough councillor for Dorian Ward but intends to continue in that role at least until the next district elections.

He jetted to Australia before Christmas to see family and to get a second opinion following surgery on his shoulder and has not returned home to Melton.

Despite being on the other side of the world he has been able to continue his county council and borough council duties by attending meetings online, with councillors unable to meet face-to-face due to coronavirus restrictions.

Councillor Pearson contacted the Melton Times to say: “Unfortunately, due to the deterioration of my medical condition I will require surgery and other physical therapy here in Perth, Australia.

“This prevents me from returning back to my home in Melton to Stand for the Leicestershire Country Council elections in May in time.

“Since July after shoulder surgery, I have worked diligently to recover.

“One of the reasons to come to Perth was to get second opinion.

“It has been a frustrating and challenging period.”

He said he has been able to continue dealing with issues flagged up by residents in his ward areas by using phone, email and WhatsApp.

On his decision not to stand again for county council, Councillor Pearson added: “I am bitterly disappointed to stand down as I have enjoyed listening to and representing the residents of West Melton at county level.

“I hope to be back In Melton early to mid-May.

“I will continue to fulfill my position until the May election.

“I guess it’s the old saying, your Health must come first.”

Elections for Leicestershire County Council take place on May 5.