Winchester city councillor stands down for family reasons

George Prest was elected as a representative for St Michael’s Ward in the 2023 Winchester Election.

However, the Lib Dem councillor has left the position, triggering a by-election which will take place on July 4.

George Prest (Image: Toby Oliver)

Mr Prest told the Chronicle that  the decision to stand down is because he will be moving away from the city during the summer “for family reasons”.

He said: “I and my Lib Dem colleagues didn't think it was right to stay in post if I wasn't here to work for residents who I was elected to represent.”

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“Lib Dems believe in working hard for residents all year round. It's been a great honour to do that for the last 12 months working as part of our Lib Dem ward team and Lib Dem District group.

"I’ve done lots of things in my life and worked with lots of different groups but I haven't come across a more thoughtful, caring bunch of people who are very focused on a stronger, greener, fairer future for our city and district."

When asked why he did not step down prior to this year’s local elections in May, Mr Prest said that the reason was “sudden and unforeseen”. 

He said: “I have done what I think is right by the people of Winchester as soon as I could.

“What I didn't want to do was take a salary from Winchester City Council, whilst living elsewhere and being unable to represent residents properly.”