County Tories choose post-election leaders

Herefordshire Conservatives have confirmed their leaders following their surprise success in last week’s local elections.

A meeting of the group last night (Wednesday May 10 ) confirmed Coun Jonathan Lester, who held Three Crosses ward for the Tories, will continue as group leader.

Coun Elissa Swinglehurst, who held Llangarron ward, was voted in as deputy leader, taking over from Nigel Shaw who has stepped down.

The Conservatives emerged for last week’s election with 21 out of the 53 seats on the county council, so lack a majority.

“As the largest party, we will now focus on forming an administration that reflects the result of the election and delivers on our manifesto commitments,” a party spokesperson said.