A NEW vice-chairman of Bromsgrove District Council has been elected following the latest full council meeting.

John Ruck, Conservative councillor for Marlbrook, accepted the position on Wednesday, November 19, where he signed a declaration and took his seat beside chairman June Griffiths.

Speaking to the Advertiser after the meeting, Cllr Ruck said:“I am very pleased to be elected and what was nice is to be supported by the Labour party. It's a great honour. I hope I will be able to serve the council if needed as chairman.”

The councillor, who is also civic head, replaces Rod Laight, Conservative councillor for Slideslow.

Cllr Laight stepped down from his position to become an active backbencher at the authority.

He was elected in 2011 when the position was created.

During the meeting, the council appointed a representative and substitute to the West Mercia Police and Crime Panel.

Conservative council leader Margaret Sherrey was put forward for the role by her party.

Leader of the Labour group Luke Mallett counter-proposed Mark Bullivant, Conservative councillor for Hollywood and Majors Green, due to his background in the police force.

Cllr Bullivant declined the position due to family commitments and cllr Sherrey was elected.

She recommended Kit Taylor, Conservative councillor for Linthurst, as her substitute.

Cllr Mallet then suggested Mr Bullivant as the substitute.

Rejecting the offer, Mr Bullivant said: "Councillor Taylor will do a great job."

He added: “I am overjoyed with the faith labour put in me tonight."

•Later in the meeting a new gateway service for 16 to 23-year-olds was discussed.

•Previously, during the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, November 5, the council had already accepted the funds to provide the service.

•Worcestershire County Council gave £11,200, St Basils, a scheme which provides housing for local men and woman in Bromsgrove, donated £6,000 and Bromsgrove District Council supported the service by offering the remaining £3,000.