'Bullying' of council staff must stop pleads Honiton Town Clerk

Honiton Town Clerk, Mark Tredwin, has penned an open letter pleading for changes in the way council staff are treated

Mr Tredwin is currently signed off sick amid claims of bullying.

The letter, which was sent to councillors today (February 28), highlights 18 examples of alleged bullying and calls for a change of culture at the council.

He begins by stating that it is 'only proper' to explain the full nature of his absence, which he announced at a council meeting on February 10, before walking out.

He wrote: "As a result of bullying, threats, intimidation and constant undermining of both my role and that of the staff by some members of this council, I am suffering from severe stress.

"The reasons have been the subject of much speculation and rumour on social media and the press and I would like to bring some clarity to the reasons for my being off."

He stated that he had previously alerted council members that 'behaviour aimed at himself and staff had not been acceptable' and that the 'demand to see appraisals accelerated his decline to the point where he had no choice but to visit a doctor'.

He made it clear that this was not 'one isolated incident' before outlining 18 examples of the type of behaviour he believes has led to him being signed off.

He then goes on to explain: "I have made repeated statements that this council should develop a corporate plan outlining its future plans.

"This has been rebuffed all along the way and members have allowed personal and dare I say it political agendas to get in the way of delivering positive outcomes to the community.

"Over the past two weeks I have read what has appeared in the press and online with great sadness and concern.

"This council is at great risk of further financial litigation and expenditure unless some form of radical change takes place."

In conclusion, he said: "One thing I am certain of is that I want to come back and serve the community of Honiton as their town council clerk, once my doctor agrees that I am fit to do so.

"Can I actually do that, right now I do not know."

We have approached the town's mayor, John Zarczynski, for comment and are currently awaiting his response.

We will keep you updated.