THE ruling Tory group on Essex County Council has elected a new leader and deputy leader.

The news comes a few days after the County Council elections which saw the Conservatives retain control at County Hall.

The new leader is county councillor David Finch and the new deputy leader is county councillor Kevin Bentley.

Both are expected to be confirmed as the new leader and deputy leader of Essex County Council at the Full Council meeting on May 14 along with the new Cabinet. Taking up his new role, Mr Finch, said: “I am honoured to have been selected as the new Leader and already the Conservatives are at work to continue our excellent fiscal management of the County Council, delivering excellent services for the public while keeping their council tax low.

"We have already promised to invest an extra £35 million over the next two years into improving our Highways and the additional money we put into mending potholes is bearing fruit as many roads are repaired. There is plenty more to do and we are on the case.”

Mr Bentley added: “I am delighted to have been elected as the new Deputy Leader and along with David and my Conservative colleagues will now be focussing on delivering our pledges. We have a superb team of councillors and all are hard working. Essex is a wonderful place to live and work and we are going to ensure this continues to be the best county in the country.”