A VETERAN councillor who has served Canvey for more than 30 years is considering stepping down after falling ill.

Ray Howard is currently deciding whether or not to contest his seat on Essex County Council at next year’s elections.

The 74-year-old, affectionately known as Mr Canvey, was first elected as a Tory county councillor in 1985.

He also serves on Canvey Town Council and Castle Point Council.

Mr Howard said he will decision whether to continue as a borough councillor by May 2018, when his current term ends.

He told the Echo a recent period of ill health and the strain of regular commutes to and from Chelmsford have prompted him to question whether he should fight in his ninth county council election.

The deputy councillor for highways said: “I am up at 5.30am even when it’s dark and have to be at County Hall in Chelmsford four times a week, and it’s difficult in the winter.

“I have Canvey in my heart and I have never been a politically motivated person. I do my best to help everyone.”

Dave Blackwell, Mr Howard’s colleague at both Castle Point and Essex County Council, has urged him to continue serving the island.

He said: “I’ve known him all my life. He has put his life and soul into Canvey to make it a better place.

“He still has a lot to give. He has dedicated his whole life to the council.”