A FORMER Mayor of Evesham has voluntarily withdrawn from the Conservative group on Wychavon District Council following a row over a controversial Facebook post.
Coun Mark Goodge withdrew from the group in advance of an investigation into complaints made against him.
During a discussion on Christmas songs, Coun Goodge made reference to a song by convicted paedophile Rolf Harris.
When challenged why it was on the list people could vote for on the page, Coun Goodge said: “He isn’t a convicted paedophile. There is no such offence.
“He was convicted of indecent assault of a couple of teenagers and acquitted of several other charges. He was sentenced to five years and nine months. That is not a particularly severe sentence.
“You would get more for GBH or a bank robbery. You can’t rewrite history and pretend he didn’t have a successful career, of which the song in this poll is just one aspect.”
The comment sparked a furious response from some members of the group who challenged Coun Goodge’s views.
Since the row a number of complaints have been made to Wychavon District Council, the Observer understands.
Leader of Wychavon District Council, Coun Bradley Thomas said: “Mark Goodge has rightly removed himself from the Conservative group on Wychavon District Council following comments made on Facebook.
“This will be dealt with in accordance with Conservative party procedures.”
