A TRIBUTE has been paid to a former council leader who has resigned from the borough ruling cabinet.

Former Basingstoke and Deane Council leader Councillor Andrew Finney resigned as cabinet member for economic strategy and development last month, saying he could no longer dedicate the time needed for the position.

Councillor Robert Donnell, cabinet member for environment and climate change, told the latest cabinet meeting: β€œHe was an understanding councillor, cabinet member, and an exceptional ward councillor. He made a real change to the borough, and I think this borough owes him a huge round of applause.”

Cllr Finney will continue to serve on the council as a member for Oakley and North Waltham.