A new leader has been named at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Leek Nub News understands.

Conservative Cllr Sybil Ralphs, representing the Bagnall and Stanley ward, who has been the district council's leader for the last 15 years, is no longer the council's leader.

It is understood that Cllr Ralphs was replaced as leader by fellow Conservative Cllr Paul Roberts, who represents the Caverswall ward, after a meeting of the Staffordshire Moorlands Conservative Association this evening (Thursday 14th April).

The announcement was made by Conservative Leek Town Councillor Roy Molson this evening. He said: "Breaking news! Paul Roberts is the new leader of SMDC. He is the current chair of SMDC, and takes over as leader from Sybil Ralphs."

Cllr Molson had last month called for Cllr Ralphs to step down as leader of the district council.

We will bring you more information on this developing story as it comes.

Leek Nub News has contacted Cllr Ralphs and Cllr Roberts for comment.