THE Labour Group on Thurrock Council have elected councillor Jane Pothecary as their new leader.

Ms Pothecary was re-elected last week as the councillor for Grays Riverside and will now lead the Labour Group as they provide the main opposition to the ruling Conservatives.

Councillor Bukky Okunade was elected as the deputy leader at the same meeting.

Ms Pothecary said: "I’m very proud to have been elected to lead the Labour Group. Our role now is clear - to stand up for the residents of Thurrock at every opportunity.

"I would like to thank the outgoing Leader, John Kent, for the work that he has done in leading the group and wish him all the best in his role as parliamentary candidate.

"Over the coming months, we need to set out a new, positive vision for the borough, and once again earn the trust of our residents. I believe we can be a positive force for change in Thurrock, and the Thurrock Labour Group will fight every day to make this a better place to call home."