Poole BC chief executive John McBride has announced his intention to retire next year after 12 years in the top role.

Mr McBride told yesterday's meeting of the full council he felt very fortunate to have worked with many talented and capable officers and councillors.

Mr McBride became Poole's assistant treasurer in 1986, and after a spell away rejoined the council as policy director in 1996 before his appointment as chief executive in 2002.

Cllr Elaine Atkinson, leader of Poole said: ‘John is an excellent chief executive who has made an enormous contribution to Poole during his many years with the council.

‘John has been hugely supportive throughout my three years as leader and 10 years as a cabinet member and his knowledge, skills and experience have proved invaluable to me,' added Cllr Atkinson.