Mr Jones - described as one of the most colourful and controversial figures in Welsh council politics - says his decision made public on Monday is down to the fact that he believes 25 years is long enough as a councillor.

He denied his decision was influenced by next week's special hearing of the Clywch inquiry into comments he made about the way the inquiry had been conducted.

The inquiry has bee looking at the case of John Owen, a drama teacher at Ysgol Gyfun Rhydfelen school near Pontypridd, who committed suicide two years ago, just before his trial for sex abuse charges.

It is trying to establish why there was not a fuller investigation of the allegations against him 10 years previously.

It is understood Mr Jones will stand down as council leader on 10 June this year.

He is due to make a full statement to the Bridgend Labour group on Monday night.