AN investigation into Mike Suarez's conduct has ended after he handed his notice in on Monday with immediate effect, Cheshire East Council has confirmed.

The former chief executive had been suspended since last April while he was investigated over ‘officer conduct’.

CEC’s investigation and disciplinary committee (IDC) had been due to reconvene tomorrow, July 12, to discuss the investigation into Mr Suarez – but that investigation has now come to an end.

Cllr Margaret Simon, acting chairman of the cross-party committee, said: “It is confirmed that Mr Suarez resigned on July 9, 2018 with immediate effect and without notice.

“The resignation was accepted by Kath O’ Dwyer, acting chief executive on July 10. Mr Suarez will receive his contractual and statutory entitlement to outstanding holiday pay and salary to July 9, 2018.

“The IDC reconvened at Macclesfield Town Hall at 10.30am today. However, as the IDC can only deal with matters in relation to existing statutory officers of the council, there is no need to proceed with the disciplinary hearing, due to the resignation of Mr Suarez.”

CEC has also confirmed that there has been no settlement agreement for Mr Suarez.