A COUNCIL leader has proved himself more popular with award judges than some members of his own party after being shortlisted for a national prize.

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Jason Kitcat has been shortlisted for the judges’ special award at the sixth national councillor achievement awards just weeks after fighting off renewed calls by his own party members for him to stand down.

Award organisers said Councillor Kitcat was shortlisted for the award in recognition of his “leadership and drive” as the head of a first time minority administration and for his work “overcoming significant challenges”.

The outgoing leader, who has announced he will take a break from politics after May, is the only Sussex politician to make the shortlist for ten awards featuring more than 50 councillors from around the country.

Coun Kitcat will go head-to-head with politicians from Carlisle, Westminster, Stockton-On-Tees and Lewisham at the awards ceremony held on Monday March 2 at the Lord Mayor’s Parlour in Westminster City Council.

The winners will be selected by a group of judges made up of local government experts and councillors.

Award organisers, think tank Local Government Information Unit and fund managers CCLA, said the judges’ special award will be given to a councillor who has shown a “demonstrable contribution to local government” over a number of years.

Winners will be picked for longevity of service, positions of leadership or extra responsibility on the council, a significant number of achievements over a period of years and contributing to improved outcomes for their local communities, the award criteria states.

Coun Kitcat said he believed that he had been nominated by someone from within the local business sector.

He added: “I’m delighted and honoured to be shortlisted for this award.

“Brighton’s many successes are due to the hard work and partnership approach of many people across the city so this nomination recognises all of their efforts.”

Labour group leader Warren Morgan said: "Despite our political differences I would like to congratulate Jason on this award as he is stepping down in a few weeks.

“He has not had an easy time over the past three years, having to deliver Conservative cuts whilst being constantly challenged, opposed and undermined by his fellow Green councillors, Green Party members and Green Party MP Caroline Lucas."