ILL health has forced long serving Nether Stowey parish Cllr Barbie Rich to step down from the authority.

Cllr Rich joined the authority in 2013 and was vice-chairman in 2023 and represented the parish council on the recreation ground and village hall committees.

A council spokesperson said: “Barb has been a fierce champion of the village and together with her late husband Tony played an active role in countless aspects of village life over many years.

“She brought to the council a vast knowledge, and for that we will always be grateful.

“The council will greatly miss her contribution, and we wish her a speedy return to full health.”

The council’s annual meeting will be held on May 12 in St Mary’s Church Centre.