A RESHUFFLE is on the cards after the resignation of two leading Somerset Councillors.

Executive lead members Tessa Munt (children, families and education) and Mike Rigby (transport and digital), are stepping down from their roles at the end of the year – though both will continue as councillors.

Leader of Somerset Council, Bill Revans (Lib Dem, North Petherton), said he will use the opportunity to review the membership of executive to help reduce costs as the council responds to the financial emergency.

In her letter of resignation, Cllr Munt (Lib Dem, Wells), said: “I have enjoyed my work over the last 18 months, learning so much and striving to improve the lives of Somerset’s children, young people and families in what has proven to be very challenging financial circumstances.

“I am confident that the successes achieved by the fantastic team will continue, and I know that our residents are in the hands of a compassionate group of people who care deeply about serving those with whom they work.”

Cllr Rigby (Lib Dem, Lydeard), said: “I’m grateful to the Leader and my group for asking me to do this work and I have worked with an amazing team of officers during that time.

“While there remains much still to do I am proud of the achievements that the team and I have secured. Perhaps foremost amongst these is improved highway maintenance and the major change in how we design our new settlements, putting public and active travel at the heart of how we move within our towns.”

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Details of a reshuffle are set to be revealed in the coming weeks, Cllr Revans said, as Somerset Council attempts to tackle a huge funding shortfall in the coming years.

“Both Tessa and Mike have both brought a huge amount of talent and experience to their respective roles,” he said.

“They have contributed massively to the work of Somerset Council. I thank them for their service and wish them both well in the future.

“This gives us an opportunity to review the Executive in light of the financial emergency and I will provide an update on future membership shortly.”