Cllr Richard Morgan (Grumbolds Ash with Avening) has been announced as the new leader of the Conservative Group on Cotswold District Council.

Cllr Morgan, a father of two who lives in Tetbury was first elected to Cotswold District Council in a by-election in November 2017 after the passing of long serving Cllr Jim Parsons.

He takes over the leadership of the Conservative group after they lost control of the District Council for the first time in 16 years during the local elections in May.

After his appointment was confirmed Cllr Morgan said: “It’s an absolute thrill to lead the Conservative group on Cotswold District Council.

"We have an excellent team which includes two former council leaders and a host of former cabinet members and committee chair’s, so it’s a real privilege to lead such an established and experienced team of people as we rebuild after a difficult local election result for us.

“Brexit and the political situation at Westminster undoubtedly contributed towards the Conservatives losing control of Cotswold District Council, but it would be naïve of us to think that was the only reason.

“One component was residents in Cirencester and market towns like Tetbury, Stow, Bourton and many others are deeply unhappy with the volume of new house building in the district.

"In parallel our younger residents are frustrated with a lack of opportunities, limited chance of social mobility and little realistic prospect of owning their own homes.

"As a group we need to address this dilemma and come back stronger with some ideas and policies that really work for all the people of the Cotswolds”.

“I love the Cotswolds! I am still at the stage where every day I think about and remember how lucky I am to live here.

"To lead the Cotswold Conservative group and potentially influence the future of our district is a responsibility and privilege which I absolutely relish.”

Cllr Richard Morgan replaces Cllr Tony Berry as leader of the group.

Former council leader Cllr Tony Berry added: “The Lib Dems have inherited a council which is extremely efficient, has a low council tax rate and is financially secure with millions of pounds of reserves and investments.

"I am proud of what I achieved as leader of Cotswold District Council, but the group have decided we need a different type of leader in opposition.

"I wish Richard well and will support him as much as I can."