HAMPSHIRE county councillor Ferris Cowper is to step down from his role representing Grayshott, Bramshott and Liphook, and Headley to concentrate on his time consuming work as leader of East Hampshire District Council.

East Hampshire Conservative Association announced the resignation this week and revealed it had already chosen a candidate, Floss Mitchell, to fight the by-election which is expected to be on the same day as the election for Hampshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, on Thursday, May 5.

Mr Cowper, who has held the seat since a by-election towards the end of 2011, and who was elected for a four-year term in May 2013, told The Herald: “I want to emphasise it’s only the county role I’m leaving and I am continuing to be Grayshott’s district councillor and leader of East Hampshire District Council.”

His district council workload has dramatically increased because of the prominent part he is taking in the debate over devolution – leading representations to Whitehall to get the best deal for East Hampshire – and in steering the regeneration of Whitehill and Bordon.

Hoping to follow in his footsteps is Floss Mitchell, who was born in Aldershot and has lived most of her life on the Hampshire/Surrey borders.

She moved to Headley in 2010 with her husband Nick, who runs a local family business, and their two teenage sons, who attend Alton College. 

“She is a barrister by training and currently works for the Student Ombudsman. 

Mrs Mitchell said: “I am extremely proud to have been selected as the Conservative candidate.

“I am excited by the opportunity to continue councillor Cowper’s excellent work. We live in such a great area, and I look forward to working with residents to make it even better.”