Ex-Rochdale Conservative leader quits party as he slams colleagues in scathing statement

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

The former leader of the Conservatives in Rochdale has decided to leave the party following ‘petty squabbles’ in wake of a change in leadership.

Coun John Taylor has been group leader for the Tories for the last two years before being replaced by Coun Stephen Anstee back in May.

The ward member for Wardle Shore and West Littleborough explained his reason for leaving was not because of the loss of position in the group, but the internal disputes in the lead up to the change and the aftermath.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands Coun Taylor would have stepped down as the leader and remained in the party if not for "the political infighting" within the local Conservative group. READ MORE: Nursery that closed after 'devastating' Ofsted report could become new special needs school Speaking in the wake of the decision, Coun Taylor said: “The first thing I should say is there has been no change in my political opinions, I remain a member of the Conservative Party nationally and my commitment to the residents of Wardle, Shore and West Littleborough remains as resolute as ever. "I will always work closely with my ward colleagues for the good of our community and with over thirty six years of public service experience my focus upon service remains very strong. “It was a pleasure to lead the Conservative group over the last two years and I wish my successor all the very best for the future.