UCATT general secretary Steve Murphy has resigned after being on sick leave for six months.

He leaves as the construction union has laid off up to 16 staff amid deepening financial turmoil and falling membership.

Murphy’s decision to quit will now trigger a new leadership race, which is likely start before the end of the year.

Brian Rye, UCATT’s national secretary, who has been covering Murphy’s duties over the last six months, said: “We wish Steve and his family all the best for the future.”