The new leader of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council has called for a new direction after the previous leader, Sybil Ralphs, was ousted as leader of the Staffordshire Moorlands Conservatives group.

The local party held a vote at its AGM on Thursday 14th April, during which Ms Ralphs lost a leadership challenge.

She was replaced in the role of Conservative group leader by Paul Roberts – who is expected to be voted in as the new leader of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council on 4th May.

Ms Ralphs has held the position of leader of the Conservative group since 2007, and was instrumental in establishing her party as the controlling group on the district council.

It's customary that the group with the largest number of elected councillors puts forward its leader to be leader of the authority.

Nevertheless, the process requires a vote of the full council.

As Mr Roberts has the support of his group, and the Conservative group holds more seats on the district council than any other group, it is expected that he'll become the authority's new leader.

He said he has yet to make any decision on cabinet appointments after he becomes leader.

Meanwhile, Mark Deaville was re-elected as deputy leader of the Conservative group and Joe Porter was re-elected as group secretary.

It's understood the Conservative group felt it needed fresh leadership due to Cllr Ralphs' waning of popularity with local residents.

Mr Roberts, who was elected to represent the Caverswall ward in 2003, said he wanted to hear from residents about their priorities.

He said "It's time for a new direction for the Staffordshire Moorlands, but before we go any further, I want to hear from our residents about the matters they care about so we can work together to build a sustainable future for the district.

"We promise to listen more than we speak and to consult residents more widely on decisions in the future."

The Conservative Association thanked Ms Ralphs for her service on the council and wished her all the best for the future.

Sybil Ralphs has been approached for a comment.