The leader of Brent Council said he appreciates that serving as a councillor can be “incompatible” with other commitments following the third resignation in a week.

Luke Patterson, who represented Wembley Central ward, became the latest Brent councillor to step down, informing council chief executive Carolyn Downs on Wednesday (December 4).

He joins former Barnhill ward councillors Michael Pavey and Sarah Marquis in giving up his seat – all three cited personal reasons for their decisions.

Cllr Muhammed Butt, leader of Brent Council, said: “As too often happens, hardworking local representatives find their civic duties and their personal, professional, and familial responsibilities incompatible.

“We thank these talented, passionate people for their contribution to the borough and look forward to announcing our Labour Party candidates in due course.”

Their resignations triggered by-elections in Wembley Central and Barnhill, which are scheduled to be held on January 23.

A spokesman for Brent Council announced that a notice of election will be published on December 13, with nominations open from December 16 to December 24.

He added that “further information will be available after the General Election” on December 12.