THE LIBERAL Democrat group in Redbridge Council have elected a new leader in the aftermath of last week's disappointing showing in the local elections.

Church End ward councillor Hugh Cleaver has stood down, with Roding ward colleague Ian Bond taking on the job.

Cllr Cleaver will now become deputy leader, while Cllr Shoaib Patel of Valentines ward will become chief whip and Cllr Gwyneth Deakins of Roding ward will become group chair.

Cllr Cleaver said: “After seven years as group leader, I had intended to stand down during the current session of the council, and with the council now in balance I think now is the right time to do so.

“It has been a great privilege to lead the group for the last seven years. The local election results bring new challenges and this is a good time to pass on the responsibility.

“I believe that Councillor Ian Bond is the best person to lead us to make the best of the opportunities we have as a group and as a council. I have every confidence that he will be an excellent leader.”

Cllr Ian Bond said: “On behalf of the group I want to thank Hugh for his outstanding leadership over the past seven years.

“Liberal Democrats have just polled nearly a quarter (23 percent) of the votes in the local elections – the highest Liberal Democrat vote share ever in Redbridge – and it is only because of the unfair voting system that, as nationally, we find ourselves with more votes but fewer seats.

“I look forward to the challenges ahead and am delighted that Hugh has agreed to continue in the role of deputy leader.”