Wolverhampton's youngest councillor to step down aged 25

But Bushbury North councillor Daniel Warren has announced he is stepping down from the authority ahead of May's local council elections.

Union official Mr Warren, now 25, says his new job means he will no longer have the time available to carry out his duties as a councillor.

"Unfortunately, as my new job will mean a lot of travelling away from the city, I no longer feel able to give 100 per cent to the residents," he said.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as a councillor and will leave behind so many fond memories."

Mr Warren, from Wednesfield, was elected to the city council for Labour in May 2014 by the slenderest of margins, defeating UKIP by 55 votes after a campaign which saw him knock on more than 2,000 doors in the ward.

He joined the Labour party aged 18, having studied politics at the University and Wolverhampton, but was politically active while still at school – spearheading a drive to challenge anti-social behaviour in Long Knowle.

A former youth MP who spoke for the city in the House of Commons, Mr Warren said he is proud of the way the city council has battled against central budget cuts in recent years.

"I think we have done a great job in very difficult circumstances," he said.

Reflecting on his time on the council, the avid Wolves fan said: "I love this city and would not want to live anywhere else, so it has always been very important for me to give my all.

"I like to think that I have left the ward in a better place.

"The roads are better, we have an outstanding school in Elston Hall, and first council houses to be built since the 1960s are on the way.

"I want to thank the residents for their fantastic support over the years, and everyone else who has helped me in any way."

Mr Warren hinted that he may return to politics in the future. "Who knows, one day when I have a bit more time on my hands I might be back," he said.