The Lib Dem group on Surrey County Council has appointed Chris Botten as group leader following the retirement of Hazel Watson.

Mr Botten, who has represented Caterham Hill division since 2017, vowed to build on Mrs Watson’s “strong legacy” and to offer a “robust and detailed challenge” to the Tory administration at County Hall.

“We will air residents’ concerns and champion their cause as the very severe cuts to come will bite into essential services for children and the vulnerable,” he added.

Mrs Watson will continue to represent the residents of Dorking Hills on the county council, an area that she has represented for the last 25 years.