A new leader of Forest of Dean District Council was elected last night after the previous holder of the post lost a vote of no confidence.

Cllr Patrick Molyneux was forced to stand down as leader after 19 councillors voted for him retain his post, 21 voted against him and two abstained, at a full council meeting.

His successor Cllr Tim Gwilliam (pictured) said: "Myself and my fellow members would like to thank Cllr Patrick Molyneux for his personal contribution to the council over the past six years.

"As leader I will continue to carry on the positive progress of this council and look at new ways of working to save money, whilst providing quality services to the local community.

"I'll now be looking to appoint a cross-party cabinet where the interests of the Forest of Dean will continue to be the main objective."

Cllr Molyneux said: "I would personally like to thank the residents who elected me to council back in 2007 and the members who have supported me as leader over the past six years.

"I strongly believe that under my leadership the council has evolved for the better and is in a stronger position than ever to concentrate on the issues that matter most to our residents.

"I wish Cllr Gwilliam the best of luck in his new role as leader."