A NEW leader of the Liberal Democrats at East Hampshire District Council was set to be appointed on Wednesday as Teresa Jamieson announced she intended to hand over the reins.

She was due to be replaced by Clanfield and Buriton councillor Peter Bradbury, who was elected to East Hampshire District Council in l999.

Mrs Jamieson said this week: ÒI am standing down as part of our plan to regain control of EHDC in 2003. I have a very pressured job, which would not give me sufficient time to be leader of the council. I have enjoyed leading such a dedicated group of councillors who work hard for their residents and strongly challenge the Conservatives when they disagree with council proposals.

ÒDuring my three years as leader we have sought to get the more extreme policies thrown out, unfortunately not always successfully, as we are often one or two votes short.

ÒAt the same time we have been trying to build up the use of the area community committees which Liberal Democrats set up many years ago.

She said she believed Peter Bradbury would make an excellent new leader: ÒHe is an enthusiastic councillor and well respected in his ward for his terrific community work. He is also unanimously supported by the whole Liberal Democrat team,Ó said Mrs Jamieson.

Mr Bradbury paid tribute to Mrs JamiesonÕs hard work not only on behalf of the community of East Hampshire but also as the leader of the Liberal Democrat Group.

ÒTeresa has led the group, which included a number of new members, after the l999 election, myself included, in a manner of which she can be proud, guiding new and old members alike. She is held in high regard by all group members and will be a very hard act to follow,Ó he said.

Mr Bradbury said Mrs Jamieson would continue to act as group spokesperson for housing and the community, a position she enjoyed and of which she had vast experience.

ÒI look forward to the challenging position of leader of the Liberal Democrat group and working for the benefit of the residents of East Hampshire. I also have the task of leading the Liberal Democrats to victory in the 2003 local elections. It may not be easy but I always enjoy a challenge,Ó said Mr Bradbury.

Farmer Chris Butler was due to take over as chairman of the council at the annual meeting on Wednesday.

Tory Mr Butler has represented Froyle and Bentley on East Hampshire District Council since l995.