Cllr Gatt, who has served as depute leader since August 2022, will also stand down as chair of the Corporate Committee and as depute chair of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee.

He will, however, continue in his role as convenor of the Grampian Valuation Joint Board.

Cllr Gatt said: “It has been a privilege to serve as depute leader, and I look forward to continuing to represent and support my constituents in the ward. I’d like to wish my successor the best of luck, thank colleagues and officers for their support and collaborative working during my time in the role.”

Moray Council leader Cllr Kathleen Robertson added: “I would firstly like to thank Cllr Gatt for his hard work and support as depute leader of the council. Cllr Gatt will continue to support the administration in their efforts to work collaboratively.

“As we approach the challenging budget and to utilise the skills of our group members, a small reshuffle will occur, and a new depute leader will be selected for council’s consideration in November.”