LEADER of West Oxfordshire District Council James Mills has appointed two new members to his cabinet.

Councillor Carol Reynolds will take on responsibility for environment and community safety, while councillor Jeff Haine will assume responsibility for strategic planning and local economy.

They replace councillors Robert Courts, who was elected as the new MP for the Witney constituency, and Warwick Robinson, who died last month.

As part of the reshuffle, existing cabinet member Toby Morris (resources) replaces Mr Courts as deputy leader. The team is completed by councillor Jeanette Baker (leisure and health) and Colin Dingwall (housing and shares services).

Mr Mills said: “I am delighted to welcome the new members of my team. They will bring a breadth of expertise and fresh thinking to the cabinet which will directly benefit West Oxfordshire residents.

“The calibre of the cabinet has been proven in the last two years with two of its members being appointed MPs. I am sure this new team is well placed to meet future challenges.”