A TEENAGER is giving up her title as the country’s youngest councillor to go on a gap year.

Isabelle Murray has resigned from Seaford Town Council as she prepares to travel the globe as part of her break from studies.

The Liberal Democrat made history when she won the Seaford Central by-election in July last year aged just 18 years and 43 days.

The former Seaford Head and BHASVIC pupil had wished to stand at the May 2015 election but was too young and had to wait two more months before making history.

She was one of five town councillors to hand in their resignations for a variety of personal reasons in recent days.

Also giving up their civic role is Councillor Carol Campbell who has resigned for health reasons following a recent illness.

Cllr Rob Chambers has resigned to take up studies to become a teacher.

Both were elected in May last year along with cllr Debbie Silvey-Adam who has also resigned having struggled to fully participate due to illness and family time demands.

Former mayor Marion Lambert, who returned to the council last May after an eight year absence, has also resigned due to ill health.

The five vacancies are currently being advertised with anyone interested in the role advised they would need to dedicate more than 12 hours a week to the unpaid role.

A by-election could be held for the vacant seats if ten or more voters in a ward request the post to be decided by ballot.

Seaford councillor Sam Adejii said: “Two councillors resigned first and their decision made up the minds of three other councillors who were thinking about resigning.

“Some were wary about causing a by-election but once there were two resignations I think the others thought we might as well do it now.

“I think there will be by-elections, I think it is likely that they will get ten signatures in each ward, I know one party is already out trying to get those signatures.

“It is a shame that we have lost the youngest councillor but there are now opportunities for other young candidates to come forward.”

For more details on becoming a Seaford Town Councillor visit seafordtowncouncil.gov.uk.