A NEW leader has taken over the minority party at Fareham Borough Council.

After more than 20 years leading the Liberal Democrats, Councillor Roger Price has stepped aside for Councillor Jim Forrest.

Cllr Forrest, a former Fleet Street journalist and parliamentary candidate, has held a number of prominent positions within the group.

Cllr Price, of Porchester East ward, continues to serve the group as deputy leader, and Fareham East councillor Paul Whittle is the group’s treasurer and co-ordinator.

Cllr Forrest, of Stubbington ward, said: “It’s a great honour to succeed Roger Price, who has given so much to Fareham as leader of the council and twice as its mayor.

“I’m delighted that I will have his experience and wisdom to call on.

“As the only opposition party on Fareham Council, we in the Liberal Democrats have a great responsibility to scrutinise all council decisions rigorously to ensure they serve the best interests of Fareham’s residents.”

Cllr Price said: “I have wanted to step down for a few years as I have a lot of commitments through my county role on the fire authority.

“After being leader for so long I think it will be good to have someone new with new ideas, and as deputy I will be happy to do anything the leader needs me to.”

He went on the say that he had just celebrated his 40th year on the authority and was marking the occasion by spending £2,000 of his own money on seating for a community centre in Porchester.