JOHN Kane has controversially quit as chairman of Copeland Borough Council.

Coun Kane has stood down, claiming that the lack of ceremonial attire attached to the role "is letting the people of Copeland down". His deputy Peter Tyson will now become chairman.

"I'm a big believer in a council having a civic responsibility," said Coun Kane, a member for Hillcrest. "People who organise charity and community events are trying to do good things and look for that endorsement from Copeland by inviting a representative. 

"They deserve the respect of someone representing Copeland looking the part - in mayoral chains and regalia. Wearing a badge signifying that you are the council's chairman just doesn't cut it for me. You go to events and people don't know who you are or who you are representing."

Coun Kane said the timing of his decision is due to the upcoming Remembrance events which, he says, "deserve the respect of someone representing Copeland's civic pride". 

The chairman position was introduced in May when the role of Copeland's ceremonial mayor was dissolved upon Mike Starkie becoming elected mayor. 

Mr Starkie is in charge of running the business of the council, and his role is not a ceremonial one. It was suggested last month that the chairman's title should be 'council chairman and ceremonial mayor', allowing the mayoral regalia including a robe and chains to be worn. However, members voted that the chairman title should not be altered. 

Coun Kane said: "I was disappointed with how the vote went, and it was noticeable that all former mayors voted for the change because they know the demands on the role.

"It's not about me - it's the role and the council that needs to look the part. Copeland's pride and heritage is being stripped away by not providing a civic role." Coun Kane remains a ward councillor.