A NEW “caretaker” leader is to take over the running of Colchester Council.

At next month’s full council meeting, veteran Lib Dem Martin Hunt is expected to replace Anne Turrell, who is stepping back after six years at the helm.

Mr Hunt, who has been deputy council leader since the Lib Dem, Labour and independent coalition took power in 2008, was elected nominee as council leader at a meeting on Saturday.

He also replaces Nick Barlow as Lib Dem group leader, who stood down after a year in the role.

See Tuesday's Gazette for more on the aftermath of last week's local elections