SOUTHAMPTON City Council's environment and transport boss has stepped down.

Asa Thorpe has resigned with immediate effect as a cabinet member due to “increased work pressures” in his job at Hampshire Constabulary.

The 32-year-old, who has been in the cabinet since Labour won power last May, will remain as a councillor for Millbrook.

His departure has sparked a reshuffle of leader Simon Letts' cabinet, with Jacqui Rayment taking on Cllr Thorpe's portfolio.

Her communities and change post will now be divided among two newly-promoted councillors.

Satvir Kaur - who is also standing to succeed John Denham as Labour's parliamentary candidate for Southampton Itchen in 2015 - will take on the communities role while Sholing councillor Dan Jeffery will take on change.

Both councillors will only draw half of the current cabinet members' allowance of £9,779, meaning the change will not mean an extra cost to the cash-strapped council.

Cllr Letts, said: “I would like to thank Cllr Thorpe for the commitment and hard work he has put into his role on behalf of the city during what has been - and remains - a very challenging time for the council.

“I'd also like to welcome Cllr Kaur and Cllr Jeffery to the cabinet. They are both very dedicated and energetic, and have a lot to offer Southampton.

“Having two members sharing a portfolio area is a new approach for this council and I am confident that they will do a fantastic job.”