THE new team leading Middlesbrough Labour Group has been announced following last week’s devastating blow in the local elections.

Councillor Matthew Storey will take the helm as Group Leader with Cllr Denise Rooney elected as Deputy Leader.

The new leader said “I am immensely proud to be elected leader of Middlesbrough Labour Group. Labour in Middlesbrough has a proud history of representing local people and I am determined to ensure their voices are heard. We pledge to be a strong voice for the town. Middlesbrough is on the rise again and we want to see it stay that way. We wish the new Mayor well and we hope that the progress made over the previous four years will be secured and built upon.”

Councillor Denise Rooney speaking about her election as Deputy Leader said “I’m proud to that colleagues have placed their trust in me. I’m delighted to be working with and supporting Matthew who brings huge experience and talent to the role of Leader. Whilst last week’s results were disappointing I am pleased that a number of talented individuals have been elected and I look forward to supporting them.”

Middlesbrough Labour Group has 20 councillors remaining after election earlier this month, losing control of the authority for the first time.