Conservative John Cotton is set to become South Oxfordshire District Council’s new leader tonight.

Mr Cotton, who represents the Sandford ward, put himself forward for the role following the death of Ann Ducker last month. She had served the council for more than 31 years.

He contested the leadership with Anna Badcock, cabinet member for health and housing, who represents Watlington.

The council’s Conservative group leader, Malcolm Leonard, said Mr Cotton was selected as leader after a secret ballot on Tuesday. The council meets at its offices in Crowmarsh, near Wallingford, tonight at 6pm.

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