Councillor to take leave of absence to recover from serious sudden illness

A councillor will temporarily step away from her duties while she recovers from a serious sudden illness.

Councillor Birgit Miller, who represents Labour in Goldsmid ward on Brighton and Hove City Council, will be off for at least three months.

In this time, ward casework will be handled by fellow ward councillor and colleague, Councillor Jackie O’Quinn and systems have been updated to make sure communication sent by residents does not go unanswered.

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Cllr Miller is also the cabinet member for culture, heritage and tourism. This role will now be covered by Councillor Mitchie Alexander until she is able to return.

Cllr Miller is expected to make a full recovery.

A spokesman for Brighton and Hove City Council said: "Everyone at the council would like to extend their best wishes to Councillor Miller.

"We will not be commenting further at this time."