WEST Devon Borough Council member for Okehampton David Hatch has resigned through ill health.
Mr Hatch, who has been praised for his enthusiasm and determination, was a new member of the council having been elected in May.
Chief Executive of West Devon Borough Council David Incoll said Mr Hatch threw himself into the work of the council and had so much to offer.
A member of the Conservative group on the council, Mr Hatch was the council's representative on a large number of voluntary organisations and was chairman of the West Devon Crime and Disorder group.
Leader of the Conservative group Cllr Richard Eberlie said his colleague, who was a member of the Metropolitan Police before moving to the area eight years ago to open a restaurant, had retired and devoted his time and services to Okehampton.
'David would have made a huge contribution to the council.' he said.
'He had a lot of enthusiasm and an enormous determination to help the local community.
'It is desperately sad that he has been stricken with illness so soon after joining the council.'
Mr Hatch, 60, was one of the three Okehampton ward members on the borough council.
A by-election to fill the vacancy is expected to be held in February should it be requested by at least two people of the parish.