LABOUR has elected Justin Madders as opposition leader on Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Cllr Madders, 38, takes over from the late Cllr Derek Bateman who died suddenly at home on July 30 following a long and distinguished career in local government.

Cllr Madders represents Ellesmere Port Town ward as did Cllr Bateman, with a by-election scheduled to take place on October 20.

Cllr Madders was chosen in a first past the post election involving all members of the Labour group who voted in a private meeting held at the council’s HQ Building in Chester.

He said after the meeting: “I am very pleased to be leading the Labour group. We want to continue to be an effective and constructive opposition.

“I believe the council has the capacity to deliver real benefits for the people of Cheshire West and Chester despite the challenging economic environment. I believe in transparency and openness and my vision for the authority is a democratic and accountable body serving the people.

“It’s an honour to follow in Derek’s footsteps. I worked closely with him and his wisdom will be a guiding light for me,” he added.

The vote took place after a minute’s silence in memory of Cllr Bateman and an appreciation read by Cllr Pat Merrick who remains as deputy leader..

Cllr Madders, a solicitor specialising in employment law for Chester-based Walker Smith Way, was the last leader of the defunct Ellesmere Port & Neston Borough Council. He is married to Nicole Meardon, also a CWaC Labour councillor but for Sutton ward.

The couple, who live in Little Sutton, have three sons, aged 13, 10 and seven. Cllr Madders is a ‘red’ in political and footballing terms being a supporter of Manchester United in his spare time.