Malvern Hills District Council has assigned councillors to key portfolio roles.

This follows the election of Councillor John Gallagher as leader, and Councillor Jeremy Owenson as deputy leader.

The councillors and their respective portfolios are as follows:

Cllr Gallagher retains his position as portfolio holder for resources.

Cllr Douglas Godwin is appointed portfolio holder for economy and tourism.

Cllr David Harrison continues his role as portfolio holder for planning and flooding.

Cllr Jeremy Owenson takes on responsibility as portfolio holder for environment.

Cllr Jennie Watkins becomes the portfolio holder for communities and housing.

Cllr Gallagher said: "It is an honour and a privilege to be elected as leader of Malvern Hills District Council.

"I am particularly looking forward to working with all councillors and officers on the council for the benefit of young and old across the Malvern Hills."

He continued: “We will meet the financial challenges ahead whilst working hard to protect and maintain services.

"The council will be looking at its priorities to improve delivery of services for our communities, as well as promote inclusive and sustainable growth across the district.

"I want this to be a partnership, where we focus on and deliver against the needs and priorities of our residents.

"Unencumbered by party politics, people come before politics."

The council convened on Tuesday (November 26) to finalise the appointments.

For more information about the current set-up of the council, visit its website.