ALL three of East Lothian’s Conservative councillors have confirmed they will not be seeking re-election in the New Year.

Councillor Michael Veitch and Provost Ludovic Broun-Lindsay revealed recently they would not be standing in the council elections in May 2017.

Now, North Berwick Coastal ward member Tim Day has decided to step away and “pursue other career opportunities”.

He told the Courier: “It has been both an honour and a privilege to represent the North Berwick Coastal ward over the last five years, but I took the difficult decision earlier in the year that I would not stand at the forthcoming election to allow me to pursue other career opportunities in property management.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those within the ward and East Lothian Council who have supported me during the term; I would also like to thank the East Lothian Conservatives for their support, particularly my colleagues Michael Veitch and Ludovic Broun-Lindsay.”

Mr Day, of Dirleton, described his ward as “a beautiful and special place”.

He noted the area faced “challenges” with the level of housing developments and impact on infrastructure but was “certain that my successor will continue to ensure that we get the best deal possible”.

He added: “I have particularly enjoyed my cabinet role as spokesperson for community wellbeing.”

“The county has first-class services, whether it be its libraries, community centres, museums, or sports facilities, and I am delighted that we have been able to both preserve and enhance them over the last five years, despite falling budgets.

“When I see so many people using the North Berwick 3G pitch it really brings home the importance of these facilities, especially for young people.”

Mr Broun-Lindsay, Haddington and Lammermuir ward, announced last week he would not be standing at the elections. It brings to an end a 30-year involvement with local government.

Colleague Mr Veitch, who is the local authority’s depute leader, announced earlier this year that he would moving from the area.

Tim Jackson, chairman of the East Lothian Conservatives, said: “Over the years [the three councillors] have made a significant contribution to their respective wards and naturally their experience and expertise will be sorely missed.

“However, we have had a record number of first-class candidates coming forward to replace them and I am confident that, if elected, they will be excellent representatives of the party for their respective wards.”