THE Liberal Democrats will now lead Wiltshire Council for the next four years following a close vote as County Hall in Trowbridge today (May 20).

Councillor Ian Thorn was officially declared as leader of Wiltshire Council, after he was elected with 50 votes.

Runner-up, former Conservative leader at Wiltshire Council Richard Clewer, received 45 votes.

Two abstentions were received.

This marks a significant change to the make-up of Wiltshire Council.

Cllr Thorn will lead a Liberal Democrat minority administration, marking the first time the party has led the council since it became a unitary authority in 2009.

Voting was carried out via a secret ballot.

It seems that the Lib Dems received support by some Independents after no party won enough seats for a majority at the local elections.

This is despite the Lib Dems ended up as the largest party on the council.

Make up of the new-look Lib Dem administration

• Cllr Mel Jacob: Deputy leader and cabinet member for communities, engagement, and corporate services
• Cllr Gordon King: Adult social care
• Cllr Gavin Grant: Finance
• Cllr Adrian Foster: Strategic planning, development management and housing
• Cllr Jon Hubbard: Children’s services, education and skills
• Cllr Helen Belcher: Economic development, regeneration and assets
• Cllr Paul Sample: Environment, climate and waste,
• Cllr Martin Smith: Highways, streetscene and flooding
• Cllr Clare Cape: Public health and co-ordination with the NHS

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Addressing the council chamber on his appointment, Cllr Thorn said: “I’d like to begin by thanking all of you that voted for me.

“I want to thank Richard for all the work he has done over the past four years.

“We’ve had our ups and downs and slight disagreements on occasion, but I’ve never been in any doubt at all that Richard had a passion and a heart for this council and for the people of Wiltshire.”

He added: “I am very aware of the electoral mathematics of this chamber – which I think is a good thing, as it forces me and my administration to work across the chamber, to work with all of you.

New leader of Wiltshire Council Ian Thorn addressing the chamber Picture: Wiltshire Council

“I think the challenge for every single member in this chamber is what we can do for the people of Wiltshire, what we can do to support our officers and how we can genuinely work together to make a real difference to this council but more importantly for this county.”

The chairman of the council is Conservative Laura Mayes, while the vice chairman is Lib Dem Ruth Hopkinson.

In a statement released by the council, cllr Thorn said: “It is a real privilege to be appointed as the leader of Wiltshire Council.

“I am committed to ensuring respectful and thoughtful debate across all 98 councillors in Wiltshire.

“All councillors want what’s best for their communities and my administration will be open to collaboration with those from all parties, ensuring that we work together for the benefit of the people of Wiltshire.

“We want to create closer links with our communities and make sure their hopes, concerns and needs are reflected in all the decisions we make on their behalf.

“My cabinet and I can’t wait to get started and we have a plan in place to enable us to hit the ground running, ensuring we provide quality services while helping those most in need.”

Cllr Thorn’s leadership aims to address the diverse needs of Wiltshire’s residents.

His vision includes encouraging constructive dialogue and mutual respect among councillors, which he believes is essential for effective governance.