A new council leader has been elected in West Dorset, following a county-wide governance shake-up.
West Dorset District Council has voted in Cllr Anthony Alford to replace Cllr Robert Gould, who stepped down after becoming leader of Dorset County Council in December.
Cllr Gould was elected to lead Dorset County Council after its former leader, Cllr Spencer Flower, quit ahead of a trial over his alleged failings to declare a conflict of interest. Cllr Flower has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Cllr Alford welcomed his election at West Dorset and thanked Cllr Gould for his ‘years of service’.
‘Local government is going through some big changes and will continue to face huge financial challenges in the future. I’m confident we can continue to successfully face these challenges head on,’ he added.
Cllr Gould added: ‘I am very sorry to be stepping down as district council leader. It has been an immense privilege to lead the district council since 2004. We have achieved so much but the main focus has been to ensure sound financial management and to keep our share of the council tax low.
‘I am delighted that Tony Alford is the new leader as he has all the necessary experience and ability to take the council forward in challenging times.’