THE Conservatives have taken over from the LibDems as the ruling party at Taunton Deane Council.

Cllr John Williams was appointed leader of the authority at the annual council meeting.

Mr Williams will meet chief executive Penny James to set out his priorities.

He replaces LibDem Cllr Ross Henley, who was the leader for three years.

Mr Williams, who has been a district councillor for Neroche since 1991, was previously leader from 2003-2007.

He said: "I'm delighted to be back as leader.

"I'm proud and appreciative to gain the support of my fellow councillors, particularly the Independents who supported me.

"I'm aware there is a great deal that needs to be done and the new Conservative executive is ready for the challenge.

"I'll do all I can as leader to deliver high quality services for our community and promote the future of our district withint our region and beyond."

Mr Henley said: "I'm very disappointed to lose the leadership without even having an election, but that's life.

"I'm not going to moan or complain.

"We've offered to share power on numerous occasions since we took over, but the Conservatives weren't interested and they've now decided to take control on their own."

For more on this story, see Thursday's Somerset County Gazette.