THE chief executive of St Helens Council is to step down.

In a statement, the council confirmed Mike Palin will be leaving his role on September 27.

Mr Palin joined the council in 2015 after succeeding Carole Hudson.

During his time at the council, there has been three poltical leaders of the council - Barrie Grunewald, Derek Long and David Baines.

Mr Palin will depart from his role next week and intends to study for a Masters in Business Administration.

In a statement, Cllr Baines, leader of St Helens Council, said: “The chief executive of St Helens Council Mike Palin will be stepping down on September 27, 2019.

"Mike has decided to study for an MBA on his departure from the council.

“Deputy chief executive Paul Sanderson will be taking on the responsibilities in the short term, and steps will be taken immediately to begin the process of appointing a permanent successor.

St Helens Star: Mike Palin

Mike Palin had held the reins at the council for more than four years

“On behalf of St Helens Council, I would like to take the opportunity to thank Mike for his service and contribution to the borough since his appointment in April 2015, and we wish him well for the future.”