DENBIGHSHIRE County Council has appointed a new lead member to its cabinet and a deputy leader.

Cllr Diane King has been appointed as the lead member for education, children and families, while Cllr Julie Matthews has taken on the position of the council’s deputy leader.

Cllr King, who was elected to the county council in 2022, worked for many years in higher education, and also previously served as Rhyl’s mayor.

Denbighshire County Council’s leader, Cllr Jason McLellan, said: “I know that Cllr King is committed to providing quality education and creating an environment that nurtures the growth and potential of every child and will be excellent in the role.

“She is a dedicated and experienced public policy professional with a strong background in education, child protection, and governance.

“I am looking forward to working with her.”

Cllr King added: “I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Denbighshire County Council's mission of providing excellent education and support for children and families in the community.

“I am confident that my experience in working in the education sector, my skills in strategic planning, communication, and problem-solving will enable me to effectively address the challenges and drive positive change in the education sector.”

Cllr Matthews, who currently sits as lead member for corporate strategy, policy and equalities, is now also the council’s deputy leader.

She replaces Gill German in this role, after she was elected the Labour MP for Clwyd North earlier this month.

Cllr Matthews also sits on the local authority’s planning committee, and is the council’s Armed Forces Champion.

Cllr McLellan said: “Cllr Matthews will make an excellent deputy and I look forward to working with her going forward.”