A former commissioner has told the Examiner that the atmosphere at Onchan Commissioner’s boardroom is ’toxic’ as he confirmed his resignation.

James Cherry, who has been a commissioner for three years, cited ’personal reasons’ and ’personal attacks’ in a letter to the board shared with Isle of Man Newspapers.

In his letter to chief executive Linda Robinson, chairman Robin Turton and other members, Mr Cherry said it was ’with deepest regret’ he had decided to resign.

His letter added: ’I feel that the atmosphere which has been created in recent times in the boardroom has been toxic with members of the board, whom I will not publicly name, aiming personal attacks at myself at board meetings.

’This is further without any prior discussion with me simply uncalled for and does not present the professionalism that the people of Onchan would expect from their representatives.’

Mr Cherry added: ’I am not one to avoid unpleasant decision-making, but the attitude of some members has made me question if they are there for the right reasons and not for their own personal gains.

’They seem to belittle other members and staff to get their way.

’I am disappointed that I am resigning under these terms but my health is more important than some members’ unprofessional and belligerent attitude towards others.’

Mr Cherry said he does intend to return to politics ’when the time is right’ and that he is still passionate about representing the people of Onchan and wished the board well.

Chairman of the local authority Robin Turton said: ’I wish to place on record my thanks and the thanks from the board of Onchan District Commissioners for all his hard work and his commitment as lead member for properties and amenities over the last three years.

’I am sure this is not Mr Cherry’s last involvement in the political field, and look forward to support him in his future endeavours.’

Due to the timing of Mr Cherry’s resignation, there will not be a by-election to replace him on the board.

Under the Local Elections Act 1986, an election will not be held to fill a vacancy if that vacancy occurs within six months of the next scheduled election ’unless on the occurrence of the vacancy the total number of unfilled vacancies in the membership of the authority exceeds one third of the whole number of members’.

The next election for local authority seats is believed to be set for Thursday, April 23, 2020.