A FORMER Ipswich mayor has been forced to step down from his position due to ill health, it emerged today.The announcement by popular councillor Bill Wright that he was to retire from Ipswich Borough Council was met with sadness by his colleagues.

A FORMER Ipswich mayor has stepped down from his position to rest after a bypass operation, it emerged today.

The announcement by popular councillor Bill Wright that he was to retire from Ipswich Borough Council was met with sadness by his colleagues.

Mr Wright, 68, was mayor during 2005/2006 and supported several charities and organisations during that time.

He was elected to Ipswich Borough Council in 1987, serving on most of the council's committees.

Elizabeth Harsant, leader of the council, said that Mr Wright will be greatly missed at Grafton House.

She said: “I'm shocked by the news of Bill's retirement but understand because he has been poorly of late and has to do the right thing by his family.

“He was considered the father of the council and will be greatly missed by everyone in the house.

“He was greatly respected and did a splendid job as mayor and as deputy mayor, when Henry Davies was himself unwell.”

Mr Wright was a great supporter of local trusts during his mayoral term, including Suffolk Family Carers, East Anglia's Children's Hospices and Macmillan Nurses.

He was also a champion of allotments in the area.

Derrick Holder, chairman of Morland Road allotments, said: “He is a great stalwart for us and all the allotments in the area.

“Everyone knows him as Bill and we gave him his own key so he can come and go here as he pleases.”

Mr Wright had a bypass operation last August and has decided to slow down and relinquish his position at the council.