A SOUTHAMPTON councillor, who made history by being one of the first two independents ever to be elected in the city, has announced he will be stepping down in May – less than 24 hours after his fellow ward member quit his seat.

In a letter to constituents, Coxford councillor Don Thomas thanked those who have voted for him since he took office in 2007, adding “I have made so many friends; too much to name on this one piece of paper”.

The announcement came after Keith Morrell – whom Cllr Thomas started the Councillors Against Cuts party with – resigned from Southampton City Council, with immediate effect, but without an explanation.

Daily Echo: Keith Morrell

The pair made headlines back in 2012 when they dramatically split from the ruling Labour party for voting against budget cuts to Oaklands Swimming Pool in Lordshill.

History was then made as they became the first ever independent councillors to be elected onto the city council.

The party was later named Putting People First, which Don’s daughter Tammy joined after being elected to the third Coxford seat in 2016.

READ: Councillor who once rebelled against Labour resigns - but hasn't given a reason why >>>

But the trio split last June, so they could all “pursue their own political directions”

But now, after 12 years, the independent councillor says he will not be putting his name forward for the local elections in May.

Cllr Thomas said: “Along with Councillors Keith Morrell, and Tammy Thomas – and the massive support from local residents, we had some fantastic victories, saving libraries, respite centres, Oakland’s swimming pool, Erskine Court, reopening Public Footpaths, and so much more.

Daily Echo: Southampton Civic Centre

“None of the victories could have happened without the support and help of local community, and dare I say the Daily Echo.”

He added: “For well over a decade, local election after local election, Coxford Ward in Southampton continued to trust and support me, I will never forget the privilege they gave me.”