The contest for the leadership of Brighton and Hove City Council is likely to be a one-horse race.

Father-of-two Simon Burgess, 41, is firm favourite to take over the helm next month when Ken Bodfish steps down.

Deputy leader Sue John had been expected to throw her hat into the ring but yesterday told The Argus she would not be contesting the leadership for personal reasons.

Her announcement means that, barring any surprise nominations before Thursday's deadline, Coun Burgess will sail through uncontested.

The Labour member, who served as a Brighton councillor from 1995 to 1999 before being re-elected in 2003, works for Brighton Kemptown MP Des Turner.

His CV also includes spells working for the health service, as a manager in the shipping and transport industry and as a volunteer worker with disabled people.

Earlier this month he was elected vice-chairman of the Labour Party's national policy forum to represent party members in regular meetings with Prime Minister Tony Blair and Cabinet ministers.

Coun Burgess, confirming his candidacy yesterday, called for a different leadership style to that of outgoing leader Coun Bodfish, who had come under fire for his uncompromising approach.

He said: "Given that we are in no overall control we need a leader prepared to work with other parties closely and listen to all council colleagues carefully so we produce results for the city and don't get into stalemate."

Labour's failure to secure an overall majority at the last local election in 2003 means it needs the support of opposition parties to see its policies enacted.

Coun Burgess also pointedly promised to be a "full-time leader". Coun Bodfish, who last week announced he would be leaving the top job on February 1 to chair a new health trust, was perceived by some colleagues to have spent too much time away from Brighton and Hove on European Union business.

Coun John, explaining her decision not to stand, said: "I have been subject to some significant changes in my personal circumstances over recent months and am currently undergoing a period of adjustment.

"I fully support Simon Burgess's nomination and look forward to continuing to work with him and our able team in my capacity as deputy leader.

"Simon is a valued colleague who has many political skills and strengths, as well as personal qualities which will make him ideally suited for the role."