THURROCK Labour councillors have elected Oliver Gerrish as their new leader.

Mr Gerrish takes over from John Kent, who is standing as Thurrock’s Labour candidate in the General Election.

Gerard Rice has been elected as deputy leader of the Labour Group.

Speaking after a party meeting last night, Mr Gerrish says he will lead a "principled opposition."

He said “I’m thrilled to be elected as leader of the Labour Group. Thurrock needs a strong, principled opposition to the Conservative administration.

"Our role is to be a voice for our residents and we will argue for a fairer, cleaner and more prosperous Thurrock.”

He continued “Where we agree with actions taken by the council, we will work constructively with the administration. But we will be firm in challenging anything that will damage our communities.

“I am proud of the record of the Labour Group over the last 13 years under John Kent’s leadership. He delivered a huge amount for Thurrock as Leader of the Council.

"Over the coming weeks we will be fighting hard to get John elected as our MP, because we know that he is the only candidate capable of standing up for Thurrock in Parliament.”

Mr Kent will face Tory Jackie Doyle-Price and Ukip's Tim Aker in the forthcoming General Election