The chief executive of Cheshire East Council has quit her £189,000 job after a period of sick leave.

Erika Wenzel left the council on June 30 with a £93,550 severence package.

She was appointed to the role in October, 2008, prior to the formation of the new Cheshire East Council in April, 2009.

Mrs Wenzel led the authority through the transition from two-tier local government, bringing together the former boroughs of Crewe and Nantwich, Macclesfield and Congleton along with half of Cheshire County Council, to form the new unitary authority of Cheshire East.

Councillor Michael Jones, leader of Cheshire East Council, said: "I had limited experience of working with Erika, but I have huge respect for anyone who has built a business from scratch and people tell me that she achieved much in those first three years.

"I now wish her a speedy recovery and I am sure that that she will see that the hard work and commitment that she gave to the Council will provide a solid foundation for great things to come."

Councillor Wesley Fitzgerald, former leader of Cheshire East Council, added: "Erika and I worked closely together over the last three and a half years forming the new Council that is Cheshire East.

"I would like to pay tribute to the diligence and hard work that she put into the birth of the new Council and in helping to bring together the different cultures and ways of working."

Mrs Wenzel said she had enjoyed her time at the council.

She said: "I am so proud of the staff at Cheshire East, who never ceased to amaze me with their hard work, tenacity and commitment. Without their support, my job would have been a lot harder and I would like to thank them personally. I look forward to watching Cheshire East Council grow and I wish them every success for the future."