Rachel Bailey wins council vote to be leader

Just in case you missed our announcement last night soon after 10.00pm when we received the news:

Audlem ward councillor Rachel Bailey was last night elected the new Group Leader by Conservative councillors on Cheshire East Council following the resignation of Michael Jones, the current leader.

The result is that at a Council meeting on 25th February, as Group Leader, Rachel is almost certain to become the leader of the Conservative dominated Cheshire East Council. There are currently 53 Conservative members, 16 Labour and 13 from other parties or groups.

That meeting in February will be discussing a number of major issues including the council's budget, the Local Plan and the election of the council leader.

Last night's vote was between Rachel Bailey and nearby Wybunbury's councillor Janet Clowes who has the Health & Leisure Portfolio. There was originally a third candidate, Cllr David Brown from Congleton, the Deputy Leader, but he had earlier announced his withdrawal from the race.

We will bring you updates on this important development locally and for Cheshire East over the coming days.

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