A COUNCIL'S first female leader has laid out the authority's vision for the future.

In her first speech as leader of Chester-le-Street District Council, Councillor Linda Ebbatson set out tough, new aims and objectives for the council at its annual meeting on Tuesday.

Unlike other councils in the North, Chester-le-Street's ruling Labour party retained its overwhelming majority in the recent elections. But it still experienced a shake-up with a number of new Labour faces.

Coun Ebbatson announced changes to the council's political structure and appointments. A revised list of aims and objectives was also set out, from listening to local people and involving them in decisions, to pledging to partake regular reviews and challenges of the council's performance.

She said: "Some things, however, are not negotiable; there will be no stereotyping of any group of people in our community or elsewhere.

"There will be no 'little women' here. If by some happy chance I'm invited to speak at the WI we will not necessarily speak about cakes and knitting any more than someone would talk about whippets and flat caps if they went to a workingman's club.

"We are all of equal esteem. We share the responsibilities and satisfaction of doing the right thing."

Council Chairman, Councillor Bill Laverick handed over his chains of office to Councillor Tom Harland.

In his final speech as chairman, Coun Laverick said: "We're not without problems, but within my travels throughout the North-East neither are other authorities. Chester-le-Street - although one of the smallest authorities - is still held in the highest regard."