GWYN Pritchard has become the first leader of West Dorset District Council as part of a shake-up of local government.

Rear-Admiral Pritchard's primary role as leader will be to chair the new all-party executive committee, responsible for taking important decisions affecting West Dorset communities.

As required by the Government, this eight-strong executive will be supported by three 'overview and scrutiny' committees, which will help develop policy and services and, from time to time, challenge key decisions.

And a new standards committee made up of four district councillors, two lay people and a parish councillor is also being set up to promote and maintain high standards of conduct within the council.

The new arrangements being adopted by the district council received the backing of residents during recent consultation work.

All the committees will meet in public and will reflect the overall political balance within the council.

Rear-Admiral Pritchard, district councillor for Bothenhampton Ward, said: "I am delighted to have been elected leader of the council by my colleagues and look forward to building on the good work carried out under the streamlined committee structure operated at West Dorset District Council since May 1999.

"The new political management arrangements will sharpen decision-making and make us all more accountable to the public."

Coun Mary Penfold was re-elected chairman of the council for the next 12 months, with Coun Ron Coatsworth remaining as vice-chairman.