East Dorset DC has elected a new leader following the election of previous council chief Cllr Spencer Flower as leader of Dorset County Council.

Former deputy leader, Cllr Ian Monks, has stepped up to replace Cllr Flower as East Dorset's new leader.

In turn, Cllr Simon Tong has been elected as deputy leader – a position Cllr Monks took up in May this year for the purpose of shadowing Cllr Flower.

Since becoming an East Dorset councillor in 2008, Cllr Monks has served on various committees including those for scrutiny, planning, licensing and community and resources.

Cllr Monks said: ‘To have the opportunity to serve as leader of the council is a great privilege, and I am grateful for the support of the other elected members in this role.

‘Local government has faced considerable financial challenges in the last three years, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.

‘East Dorset District Council under Spencer Flower's leadership has withstood these challenges by, on occasion, taking quite radical decisions.' 

Cllr Monks said he hoped to gain the support of members and residents in taking decisions to preserve essential services and deliver a balanced budget.

Outgoing leader, Cllr Spencer Flower, said: "Much has changed during my time as Leader, for which credit must be shared with councillor colleagues and the first class team of officers we have at the council, in dealing with the many challenges facing local government in these difficult financial times.'