NEW LEADER PICKED AFTER DEATH OF COUNTY LEADER

David Beatty has been elected leader of Hertfordshire CC. He takes over from Robert Ellis, who died last week.

Mr Beatty, formerly deputy leader, who is executive member for resources, represents the Ware North Division, and has been a member of the county council since 1997.

He will remain in post until May, and will then stand for election by members of the Conservative group.

He said: 'These are the saddest possible circumstances in which to become leader. My aim will be to continue with the work which Robert started, and to be as passionate as he was in defending the interests of the people of Hertfordshire.'

Mr Beatty said 'The business of the council must go on, but Robert's wisdom, wit and sheer presence will be greatly missed. All of us have fond memories of Robert and he leaves a vacuum which will be hard to fill.

'As his deputy, I was privileged to work closely with him for the past five years but, not withstanding, he will be an extremely hard act to follow.'