The chief executive of Chiltern and South Bucks District Councils has announced his retirement.

Alan Goodrum is to stand down in mid June following a 40 year career in local government, it was announced today.

The Yorkshireman, who lives in Stoke Mandeville, began his career as a planner at Durham County Council before joining Chiltern District Council in 1996.

The leaders of both councils have today paid tribute to Mr Goodrum.

Isobel Darby, Leader of Chiltern District Council, said: "Alan has done a great job here for the past 19 years and will leave an enviable record of achievement as a legacy of his time here. Thanks largely to his foresight and sound management, we are well placed to manage the challenges ahead.

"Of course, we are sad that he is leaving and he will be greatly missed not only at the two councils he has served so diligently, but by the many partner agencies we work closely with. We wish him a long and happy retirement."

Cllr Adrian Busby, Leader of South Bucks District Council, added: "Alan was an inspired choice for our first shared chief executive at South Bucks. He has worked tirelessly on our shared services project with Chiltern as well as doing the day job of managing the council's performance.

"My sincere thanks go to Alan for his endeavours over the past three years, with best wishes for the future. He will be missed."