The West Berkshire Conservative group announces shadow executive team at West Berkshire Council

The West Berkshire Conservative group, now in opposition on the council, has announced its shadow executive team.

Only five of the now 11 Conservative councillors have been appointed to cover the nine top spots.

Newly elected opposition group leader Ross Mackinnon (Con, Bradfield) will be spokesperson for strategy and communications; finance; corporate services; and regeneration, growth and strategy development.

Dominic Boeck (Con, Aldermaston) is the deputy leader of the opposition and opposition spokesperson for children, education and young people; governance; and transformation.

Richard Somner (Con, Tilehurst South and Holybrook) takes on planning and community engagement; highways; and climate action, recycling and biodiversity.

Jo Stewart (Con, Tilehurst Birch Copse) switches from her previous portfolio holding role in adult social care to add integrated health; and public health.

Howard Woollaston (Con, Lambourn), the previous portfiolio holder responsible for the Monks Lane and Faraday Road football plans, will now see those plans reformed as he sits in opposition in leisure and sport; housing; and culture, countryside and public safety.

"I know that our shadow executive team will give the new administration a robust and challenging opposition for the benefit of all residents of West Berkshire," said Mr Mackinnon.