COUNCILLOR Deborah Croney has been elected as the new leader of North Dorset District Council following the decision by Cllr Peter Webb to step down.

Cllr Croney has represented the Hill Forts ward since 2007 and is also a parish councillor in Iwerne Minster.

At the district council she previously had responsibility for the economy portfolio, which included planning, conservation, rural regeneration and heritage.

She also served as deputy leader under Cllr Webb for the past two years.

She said in a statement: “Becoming leader of North Dorset District Council is a huge honour.

“As an experienced but relatively youthful leader you can be certain that my very best days are still ahead of me!”

Cllr Graham Carr-Jones is the new deputy leader. He was first elected to North Dorset District Council in 2003 and has served in the cabinet for eight years.