FARNHAM councillor David Munro has mysteriously resigned as deputy chairman of the South West Surrey Conservative Association (SWSCA).

His decision has prompted rumours the party is deeply divided in its approach to the controversial redevelopment of Farnham town centre.

SWSCA chairman Richard Bourne confirmed Mr Munro had stepped down from his post this week.

But both he and the councillor have declined to explain the reasons behind his departure.

It comes just weeks after a meeting of Waverley Borough Council's joint planning committee unearthed bitter conflict among Conservative councillors over extending planning permission for work to begin on the East Street scheme for another three years.

Full story - read this week's Farnham Herald.