LABOUR Cllr Sam Corcoran has been announced as leader of the opposition for Cheshire East Council.

The Sandbach Heath and East councillor was selected as the new leader of Cheshire east Labour group at the Annual General Meeting on Saturday, May 6.

Cllr Corcoran said: “David Newton was an exceptional, statesmanlike leader of the opposition at the council. He was not afraid to stand up when needed.

“I am pleased that at the last council meeting he attended in February, David received a heartfelt round of applause from all councillors.”

The previous leader, David Newton, had stepped down due to ill health and the vote to select Sam as the new leader was unanimous.

Cllr Jill Rhodes, Crewe West, said: “There is no greater accolade than to be recognised by your colleagues.

“Sam has proven his ability and courage and leadership skills in pushing through several significant changes at Cheshire East Council from the opposition benches.”

Cllr Corcoran is also running as the Labour parliamentary candidate for the Congleton constituency in the General Election.