THERE is a change at the helm amongst the opposition Liberal Democrats on Winchester City Council.

Cllr Kelsie Learney, formerly the party’s finance spokeswoman and deputy leader, has taken over from Cllr Therese Evans.

She became group leader in 2006 after former city council chief, Sheila Campbell, lost her seat. The Lib Dems lost control of the council at the same election.

Cllr Evans said this week: “Kelsie will be an excellent leader for the Liberal Democrat group.

“She has a sound knowledge of the council's work and excelled in her former role as chair of principal scrutiny. She was elected unanimously and has my total support.”

Cllr Learney said: “Therese was a very successful group leader, the number of Liberal Democrat councillors grew under her leadership but she felt it was time to step aside and let someone else move the Liberal Democrat group forward.”

Cllr Evans will become deputy leader, while the Lib Dem front bench could also be set for a reshuffle. More details about the shadow cabinet are expected within a few days.

As the Lib Dems make their changes, the ruling Conservatives announced at the last cabinet meeting that they would stay the same.

Cllr George Beckett, who leads the council, said: “I’d like to thank my fellow cabinet members for their service over the last 12 months.

“I do believe in continuity wherever possible as it means that experience can be built up.”