A Liberal Democrat councillor who was once one of the youngest elected politicians in England has resigned after 15 years in local government.
Joe Harris, who was first elected to Cotswold District Council in 2011 at the age of 18, told the council this week it was ‘time for a change of career’ in his final speech at its annual meeting.
Harris went on to become the youngest mayor in the UK at 20, representing Cirencester, and was council leader from the age of 26. He is also stepping down as a Gloucestershire County councillor.
The 33-year-old described his time in local government as ‘an absolute honour’ and said leaving was ‘a wrench’, but that ‘sometimes the hardest thing is deciding to move on at the right time.’
Harris has taken up a new role as strategic relationships lead at the East West Railway Company and told the BBC: ‘While I'm stepping away from elected office, Cirencester will always be home, and I'll always care deeply about the town and the people here.’
An election to fill the vacancy in the St Michael’s ward will take place on Thursday 2 July 2026.
Jane Portman, chief executive officer at Cotswold District Council, said: 'I would like to express my sincere thanks to Joe Harris for his dedicated service and strong representation of his residents. We wish him every success in the future.
'Engagement in local democracy is vital, and I encourage residents of the St Michael’s ward to make sure they are registered to vote and take part in the by-election. Please also check your voting arrangements and ensure you have the necessary identification where required.'
