Mark James, the chief executive of Carmarthenshire County Council, has applied for severance from his role, it was announced today (Tuesday).

The group leaders on Carmarthenshire Council were informed of the intention this morning, according to a spokesman.

The council added: "This application will be considered in line with the other 360 or so applications that have been received from staff to date.

"As is the case with all applications there is a process to be followed to consider each application over the next three to four months.

"During this period, it will be business as usual for Mr James who will continue in his role as Chief Executive."