A NEW deputy leader has been appointed at Dudley Council after voters failed to re-elect Stuart Turner.

Councillor Judy Foster, who serves the Brockmoor and Pensnett ward, has now taken on the role.

She told the News it was a "bit of a surprise" and added: “This vacancy was made available as my predecessor lost his seat. Stuart was a good deputy leader and I would not have stood against him.

“I’m delighted to have the opportunity but it is in the context of what was a bad few days for my party and the sad loss of Stuart.”

The former regeneration boss, who is now responsible for corporate and customer services, said she would see that every resident received a good service from Dudley Council, especially "those who need it the most".

Councillor Pete Lowe, leader of Dudley Council added: “Judy has worked tirelessly over the years, not just for the Labour group but for the community. She has done a sterling job in the borough and will be an asset working alongside me.”