A shock announcement on Monday night revealed that the chief executive of Mendip District Council would be leaving in the new year.

At a meeting of the full council, Mendip leader Harvey Siggs gave a brief statement announcing the departure of David Thomson after six years in the post. The announcement came after a session in private

He said Mr Thomson's request for early retirement had been accepted and Stuart Brown, his deputy, would be taking over from January 4.

The news comes following an inspection report by the Audit Commission stating that the council had failed to reach minimum standards in many areas.

The inspection looked at a period up to the end of March 2009, before the council's restructure or the launch of its new corporate plan, which sets out the authority's aims and priorities for the next three years.

A statement from Mendip said Mr Thomson was leaving to pursue his interests in management and mentoring, using his 35 years experience in local government for councils including Epsom, Woking, Bolton and Cleveland.

It said: "During his six years with Mendip he has helped lead the council through ever- changing rules and legislation.

"He says that sorting out the financial arrangements have been some of the toughest challenges in his career."

Leader of the council Mr Siggs said: "David has always committed himself 100 per cent to the council.

"He has led the officer team with integrity and provided sound advice to elected members throughout his time here.

"He has been an excellent ambassador for the council, working with other organisations and partnerships."

The leader of the Liberal Democrat group, Councillor Claire Hudson added her thanks, saying: "I would like to wish David every success with his future plans and thank him for his work for the council."