COUNCILLOR Les Jones has been officially installed as the new leader of Dudley Council.

The Pedmore and Stourbridge East ward councillor took over the reigns at a meeting of full council last night after serving as deputy for the last two years.

Gornal councillor Tim Wright has been named as the new deputy leader of the council.

Speaking of his new role, cllr Jones, said: “Over the past year or so, like all other councils across the country, we have been making extremely difficult decisions in relation to our reduced budgets.

“I have no doubt that the budget we set for this year, and for the next three years, is a fair budget which has helped protect frontline services and jobs.

“There will of course be more difficult decisions to make, but I’m confident that we can look forward to a bright future in the Dudley borough and we already have plenty to be proud of.

During the meeting a re-shuffle of the decision making Conservative cabinet was also agreed.

Halesowen South cllr David Vickers returns to the top bench as cabinet member for performance management and quality reassurance.

While Cllr Tim Wright becomes cabinet member for human resources, law and governance.

Cllr Adrian Turner takes over the portfolio for housing, libraries and adult learning.

Cllr Angus Adams moves over as cabinet member for regeneration, while cllr Patrick Harley takes responsibility for transportation.

Cllr Liz Walker remains as cabinet member for children's services. Cllr David Blood keeps his finance portfolio. Cllr Lesley Faulkner remains in charge of adult and community services, while cllr David Stanley remains cabinet member for environment and culture.