A COUNCIL leader received a standing ovation after handing over the reins to his deputy.

Councillor Bob Fleming has stepped down after ten years as leader of Great Aycliffe Town Council.

Although continuing as a council member, he is moving aside to concentrate on his new role as leader of Sedgefield Borough Council.

At the council's annual meeting this week Councillor Alan Gray was named as the leader, with Councillor Malcolm Iveson as his deputy.

Coun Fleming said he believed the council was in a much better state than when he took over and paid tribute to the council staff and fellow members.

He said: "We have got people of ability and people who are committed to this town, people who tell the truth, people who can be respected and people who can take this council forward. I feel I'm leaving this council in very good hands."

Coun Gray paid tribute to his predecessor and conceded he had a hard act to follow.

The new leader said: "I think we have to acknowledge the contribution that Bob Fleming has made to this particular town council and to the town as a whole during the ten years he has served as leader."

He said Coun Fleming had brought political stability, financial stability, common sense and level-headedness to the council.

He added: "Bob leaves a happy ship after all the effort and hard work he's put in here and it's my aim to carry on with that.

"This is a successful town council and will go onto even greater success in the future."