Barnet Council chief executive Andrew Travers has left after a huge blunder meant thousands could not cast their vote in the mayor elections on Thursday.

The returning officer was under pressure to step down from his post after the wrong voter lists were sent to polling stations ahead of the mayor elections.

He said: "I have enjoyed my time at Barnet and I believe the changes we have put in palce and the continued programme of growth and transformation will enable the borough to thrive."

Mr Travers has held the post for three and a half years but is leaving by "mutual agreement".

Despite the error, council leader Richard Cornelius thanked him for his service, saying: "Andrew has overseen Barnet Council during a significant period of challenge and opportunity, delivering changes to services to ensure we get the best value for the tax payer and securing the council’s financial position.

"He leaves with my thanks and best wishes."

Meanwhile, Barnet Council will run an "independent investigation" into what happened - and the Times Series will continue to put pressure on the authority for answers with the #WhyCouldntWeVote campaign.

It has not yet said who, or which body, will run the investigation.

John Hooton, the current deputy chief executive, will take over his role while longer term arrangements are put in place.