A COUNCILLOR who has been absent from the county council for six months is hoping to be back in action soon.

Earlier this year, Liberal Democrat member for Baddesley, Councillor Alan Dowden, was granted a leave of absence after suffering an injury that ‘significantly impaired’ his mobility.

Cllr Dowden says his injury – a fractured ankle from falling off a step-ladder – left him bedbound for weeks.

He said: “There was moss filling one of our drainpipes, so I had gone up on the ladder to clean it when I had the accident.

“There are quite a few bones in your ankle, so I was in a bit of a mess after the fall.

“First I went to hospital, then I was stuck in bed for eight weeks before I started having physiotherapy. To begin with I couldn’t put any weight on that foot whatsoever.”

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Under the Local Government Act (1972) councillors can have periods of absence approved by their respective council.

Having taken six months off due to his injury, Cllr Dowden now requires an extension to be approved by the conduct advisory panel – which is set to meet next week.

Cllr Dowden said: “I’m certainly on the mend, but I haven’t fully recovered just yet. I’m walking with special shoes but can’t quite make it upstairs.

“My wife, the ex-mayors and other councillors have been absolutely superb in supporting me, and I’ve had so many well wishes from members of the public, which was very heartwarming in what has been a rather depressing time.

“I do intend to be at the next full council meeting in November – even if I have to crawl to Winchester, I desperately want to be there.”

Leader of the Liberal Democrats in Hampshire, Cllr Keith House, said: “Alan Dowden is one of Hampshire’s longest serving and most respected councillors.

“When Alan stands up, the Conservatives are forced to sit up and listen.

“We all wish Alan well for a speedy recovery to be able to get back to the council chamber to keep up his work for Baddesley, Valley Park and all of Hampshire.”