The unprecedented stand down now leaves vacancies in the town's South West Ward, West Ward and North Ward.

The shock resignations from John Alvey, Stephanie Murray and Mark Warner were announced at a meeting of the town council this week during which town mayor Tony Cooper thanked them for their contributions.
Coun Cooper said: "We have to thank them for their contributions to the town council over the years and say that we wish them well for the future."

According to Claire Binnington, clerk to the town council, this is the first time the council has received so many resignations at the same time.

Mrs Binnington said: "I cannot remember another time when we had a mass resignation and I have been here since 1997. I think this is the first time we have had three town councillors resign at the same time."
An inability for the town council to work together as a team is the main reason Stephanie Murray has given for relinquishing a role she has held for more than five years.

Mrs Murray said: "One of the reasons I have been looking at standing down is because I feel we are not working together and I think some times the things that we are discussing at town council are being discussed before they reach the table.

"I felt we weren't effectively working as a team and at times we were working against each other and we can't actually work and build and move forwards in that way," Mrs Murray added.

Mrs Murray said she regrets letting the town down, but insists it was the only option.

"I don't want to let the town down, but if you can't build then why carry on. It wasn't a decision I took lightly, but I feel it was the right decision full stop."

In his letter of resignation, John Alvey said he was not currently in a position to continue in the role. Mr Alvey said: "I have enjoyed my time on the council but no longer feel I can support it at this time."
Coun Cooper has expressed his disappointment at the resignations and said he was under the impression the town council was working well together.

Coun Cooper said: "I thought we were gelling together, but unfortunately everybody can't have their point of view accepted by their colleagues and we have to go by the majority decision on whatever we are discussing."

A by-election to fill the vacancies will be held if by September 22 10 electors from the parish give notice in writing to the Chief Executive of the East Riding of Yorkshire Council at County Hall, Beverley, East Yorkshire HU17 9PB claiming such an election. If no such notice is given the town council will fill the vacancy by co-option.
sara.beach@yrnltd.co.uk