THERE has been a change at the top of Bromsgrove District Council.

At the annual general meeting of Bromsgrove District Council, held at the Council House on May 14, Margaret Sherrey was elected the new leader of the authority.

The ruling Conservative group had already selected Coun Sherrey as its new leader and, as is the custom with the leader of the largest group, she was elected the authority's new leader at the council meeting.

In nominating her Councillor Kit Taylor described Coun Sherrey as a dynamic, hard working councillor who carried herself with quiet dignity and a sense of purpose.

Her fellow councillor in the Furlongs ward, Janice Boswell, added that she expected Coun Sherrey would do a superb job.

After the meeting Coun Sherrey told the Advertiser that she was proud to have been elected leader, and would be bringing a different style of leadership.

"Everyone has a different style of leadership - I want to bring an inclusive style and I want to take people with me," she said.

"I know there are going to be times I have to say no, but it is about the way you say it."

The new leader said her main aims in the next year, before the district council elections, would be continuing the work already started on the town's regeneration and reintroducing the parish forums, to ensure everyone is working together.

Coun Sherrey also paid tribute to her predecessor, Councillor Roger Hollingworth, who stepped down after nine years in the role.

She said: "He led the council through turbulent times, when it entered voluntary engagement.

"I want to continue his good work."

As well as leader, Coun Sherrey will be holding the portfolio for community services, partnerships and governance.

Councillor Kit Taylor will be deputy leader and portfolio holder for planning services.

Coun Hollingworth, who will be retiring as a councillor next year, will be in charge of the finance, revenues and benefits portfolio.

Environmental Services will be the responsibility of Councillor Mark Bullivant, while Councillor Rita Dent takes charge of town centre, regulatory services and housing.

Councillor Mike Webb will be responsible for leisure services, economic development and emergency planning, while Councillor Del Booth will be responsible for the portfolio of enabling.