At Monday’s South Norfolk Council meeting, the opposition Conservative Group introduced its new Leader, John Fuller, who represents the Brooke ward and was first elected only 18 months ago in May 2003.

Ronnie Hoare, outgoing leader announced that he is to undergo minor surgery and brought forward his own planned retirement as leader, which will give him time to concentrate on new licensing responsibilities upon his return to duty. The 18-strong Tory group selected John, 36 to replace him.

John is believed to be one of the youngest political group leaders in the Country. He has lived in Brooke with his wife Philippa and daughters Susan, 7, and Laura, 6 for the last 8 years. A graduate of the University of Reading with a First Class degree in 1990, he works at J & H Bunn Ltd in Great Yarmouth.

It caps an excellent week for the party in South Norfolk which celebrated the victory of Margaret Dewsbury in the Easton by-election with an increased share of the vote last Thursday.