Surrey CC's majority Conservative group has elected David Hodge as its new leader, following Dr Andrew Povey's resignation. Dr Povey continues as council leader until Tuesday 11 October, when a full council meeting will elect a new leader.

Cllr Hodge says the position is an ‘honour' and he looks forward to serving the people of Surrey pending the full council's decision, and would name his new deputy leader and cabinet at the same meeting, should he be successful.