The mayor of Canadian city Toronto has resigned unexpectedly after admitting to a relationship with a former staff member, the BBC reports.

John Tory quits shortly after the Toronto Star newspaper reported he was in a relationship with with the 31-year-old woman – who was not named.

He said the affair started during the Covid-19 pandemic and was “ended mutually by consent this year”.

The 68-year-old called the relationship a serious error in judgement.

He added: “I deeply regret having to step away from a job that I love in a city that I love even more. I believe, in my heart, it is best to fully commit myself to the work that is required to repair these most important (family) relationships as well.”