Rita succeeds George as Liberal Democrat Group Leader

12.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 26th May 2005

Cllr Rita Hawes replaces George Koowaree as the Lib Dem Council leader

Long serving councillor Rita Hawes has succeeded George Koowaree as the leader of the Liberal Democrats on Ashford Borough Council.

Cllr George Koowaree successfully defended his County Council seat in May, more than trebling his majority. "Sadly as the Liberal Democrat group at County Hall has shrunk it means that I have more to do at County level. I do not have enough time to serve residents as a County Councillor and as group leader locally. I am therefore delighted that Rita has taken over my responsibilities and I am sure she will lead the group to success in two years time."

Cllr Rita Hawes, who represents Boughton Aluph & Eastwell ward, is looking forward to the challenge ahead. "We are a strong and experienced group. The aim must be to increase the number of councillors we have to further challenge the ruling Tory group."

Rita's deputy will be North Willesborough's Cllr Bob Davidson, who was Lord Mayor between 2004 and 2005. Bob added "I would like to thank George for his hard work as leader."

"I am delighted that the current Liberal Democrat leadership covers both the town and rural areas, we need to make gains at the elections in two years time and I believe the team is in place to do that."