CONSERVATIVES on Thurrock Council have elected a new leader and deputy leader following the resignation of Andrew Jefferies, who initially announced he was stepping down as leader, then quit the council.

Following in the footsteps of his father and former councillor, Mark Coxshall, Cllr George Coxshall, who won a seat on the council in 2022, will be the new group leader.

Cllr Coxshall, who represents Belhus and was formerly deputy to Mr Jefferies, said: "I am honoured to have received the confidence of the Thurrock Conservative Group in being elected as their Leader.

"My priority is to lead the Thurrock Conservative Group forward with a positive vision, ensuring we remain a strong and effective opposition to the Labour administration.

"Especially with local government reform on the horizon, we will continue to stand up for the interests of residents and hold the council to account to ensure we receive the best possible future for Thurrock."

The Conservatives have also elected Cllr Jacqui Maney as Deputy Leader of the group. 

Cllr Jacqui Maney.

Cllr Maney, who represents Aveley and Uplands, said: "As deputy leader of the Conservative opposition I look forward to working alongside Cllr. Coxshall as we champion the interests of all Thurrock residents during what will be a period of considerable change.

"This is a time for all political parties in the borough to come together and work collaboratively as we carve out a new future and I will play my part in this.

"At the same time, make no mistake, Thurrock Conservatives will also hold the council to account and shine a light on areas where we feel there is a need for more transparency."