Homes row forces change of leader

Mr Nugent is a former coal miner

Opposition to plans to close care homes for the elderly has led to a change in a council's leadership.

Earlier this year, the controversial proposal to shut nine homes was rejected after a rebellion by Labour councillors on Durham County Council.

Seaham councillor Albert Nugent's leadership challenge was prompted by council leader Ken Manton's continuing support for the proposed closure.

The council's controlling Labour group has now chosen Mr Nugent as new leader.

The council had said it believed it could save £3m a year if it closed down its nine remaining homes, which are two-thirds full, as part of plans to modernise the way in which care services for older people were provided.

Mr Manton has been a councillor since 1989

But care workers, residents and relatives held protests over the plans.

Mr Manton has been leader of the county council for the last six years. He has been a councillor since 1989 and was first elected to represent the Sedgefield electoral division, but since last year has represented Bishop Auckland Town.

Mr Nugent is a former coal miner who has represented the Deneside area since 1992.

Following the recent death of deputy leader Don Ross, Councillor Brian Walker has been chosen as his successor.

The appointments are subject to being confirmed at the annual council meeting on 10 May.