NORTHUMBERLAND County Council's cabinet has undergone a reshuffle following a changing of the guard at the top.

Last week, Coun. Glen Sanderson, who represents Longhorsley, was confirmed as the council's new leader, replacing Peter Jackson.

His deputy is Ponteland North representative Richard Dodd. Coun. Dodd's former position as business chair has now been filled by Coun. Barry Flux, who was elected unopposed.

His deputy is now Coun. Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South.

Coun. Sanderson’s new cabinet – with some of the responsibilities amended and roles renamed – sees those already in post remain, although Coun. Veronica Jones returns to the adult wellbeing role she resigned from in August.

Her replacement, Coun. Jeff Watson, now moves to the newly-named Healthy Lives portfolio, which covers much of the art, leisure and culture post left vacant by Hexham East representative Cath Homer’s resignation last month.

However, the tourism strand has been moved to what was the economic development portfolio, with Coun. Richard Wearmouth now responsible for business and tourism.

Coun. Wendy Pattison, the ward member for Longhoughton, is the other new face, taking on the role of equality and diversity champion – a new position.

Coun. Jackson was removed from office after losing a vote of no confidence, thanks to three Tory rebels.

It followed weeks of allegations after the suspension of the council's CEO, Daljit Lally, after she raised whistleblowing concerns.

Coun. Sanderson became deputy leader after his predecessor, Coun. Wayne Daley, resigned, before taking over as interim leader up until his election.