The Mayor of Sandwell, Cllr Richard Jones has expressed his disappointment after being deselected by the Labour group ahead of the local elections.

Posting on social media, Cllr Jones, who was first elected in 2019 and took office as Mayor in March, confirmed that both he and his partner - fellow councillor, Richard McVittie - will not be on the ballot sheet in May.

He said that he and Cllr McVittie had enjoyed ‘exemplary records’ over the past four years, adding that no reason had been given for the decision and there was no right of appeal. He said:

”It’s disappointing as we have given everything to championing equality and diversity in Sandwell.

“As Mayor and first citizen I have devoted the past year to being an advocate for our amazing people and organisations. I’ve really enjoyed my term.”

Cllr Jones will remain as Mayor until the end of May and says he will be ‘making the most’ of the next few months, however admitted that time will be bittersweet knowing some people don’t feel he would be suitable for another term. He added:

“Thank you to all those who have supported us especially as the first LGBT+ Mayoral couple in the West Midlands.

“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved over the past 4 years.”