LIB DEMS CHOOSE NEW LEADER AT COUNTY HALL (Scarborough and Whitby Liberal Democrats)

Scarborough and Whitby Liberal Democrats <info@scarboroughandwhitbylibdems.org.uk>

LIB DEMS CHOOSE NEW LEADER AT COUNTY HALL

May 15, 2006 10:02 AM

County Councillor Bill Hoult

Liberal Democrats at County Hall have elected County Councillor Bill Hoult as their new leader.

He takes over from County Councillor Caroline Seymour, who announced her intention to stand down as leader last month. Caroline has led the Lib Dem Group, which now has 18 members, since 1996. She has served as a County Councillor since 1989, representing Stokesley.

Bill Hoult, who represents Knaresborough, said

"Caroline has been a tremendous leader, and a credit to the council and the party. At all times she has been on the ball in holding the Council's Conservative administration to account on behalf of North Yorkshire residents. She recently fought an excellent campaign against the Council's introduction of charges for post-16 transport. I hope to carry on the superb work she has done."

Councillor Caroline Seymour said:

County Councillor Caroline Seymour

"I have been leader for ten years now, and feel it is time to pass the baton on. I would like to thank all the Lib Dem County Councillors, past and present, for their help and support over the years. In particular I would like to thank my deputy leader, Cllr Bill Hoult, who has been very supportive, and I'm sure will do a marvellous job as leader."

Caroline went on:

"I have enjoyed my time leading the group. We have been the only real opposition at County Hall, and I am particularly pleased that the group increased in size last year."

However, Caroline has no intention of disappearing from public life. She also represents Stokesley on the Parish and (Hambleton) District Councils, and is a member of the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Authority. At County Hall, she is Vice Chair of the Young People Overview and Scrutiny Committee.