A SENIOR Hartlepool Borough Council official is leaving the authority to take a position with Middlesbrough Council.

Tim White, director of regeneration and planning, has been appointed assistant chief executive (regeneration) for Middlesbrough. He will be involved in job creation and training, planning, cultural services and the town's regeneration.

Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond said: "Tim is a very enthusiastic and energetic officer who has achieved so much during his ten years in Hartlepool. He certainly leaves a proud legacy behind and we wish him similar success in his new role."