Former Government Senate Leader Lt. Col. David Burch has resigned from the chairmanship of the West End Development Company (Wedco) and the deputy chairmanship of the Bermuda Housing Corporation (BHC), it emerged yesterday.

Col. Burch is understood to have become disillusioned with the jobs and the current direction of the housing issue on the Island - reportedly standing down in frustration almost two weeks ago.

Housing Minister Ashfield De Vent yesterday confirmed receipt of a letter of resignation, but said he was unwilling to go into the specifics until he has met with Col. Burch and discussed the situation.

Despite repeated attempts, Col. Burch could not be reached for comment last night. An outspoken and often controversial figure, Col. Burch built a solid reputation as a man of action in the political sphere when he was made Housing Minister three years ago by the former Premier Jennifer Smith - tackling the daunting task of restoring the reputation of a BHC drowning in scandal.

He lost his portfolio and his Senate seat, however, following the 2003 General Election and the ensuing leadership struggle which saw Ms Smith relegated to the backbenches in favour of compromise candidate Alex Scott.

Signs of a resurrection of sorts were soon evident, however, and in February this year he was appointed to the BHC board while an appointment as chairman of Wedco followed in September.