COUNCILLOR Debbie Wilcox was re-elected as leader of Newport City Council at a council meeting held today.

Cllr Wilcox, who represents the Gaer ward, will also chair the council’s cabinet.

The leader of the council said: “I am absolutely delighted to be appointed as the leader of Newport council and the chair of cabinet for this municipal year.

“It has been a great honour and I have really enjoyed myself this last year.

“I am sure this year we will continue to do our best for everyone in Newport.”

At the meeting, Cllr Mark Whitcutt, who also represents the Gaer ward, was elected as deputy leader.

Cllr Matthew Evans, who represents the Allt-Yr-Yn ward, will be leader of the opposition, with Cllr Margaret Cornelious, who represents the Graig ward, being the deputy leader for the opposition.

Also at the meeting, Cllr David Fouweather, for the Allt-Yr-Yn ward, was elected as the new mayor for Newport. Cllr Richard White, for the Marshfield ward, was elected as the deputy mayor.

During the meeting, Cllr Evans said of Cllr Fouweather: “David is a close friend and party colleague.

“We will miss his advice but David has absolutely earned the right to serve as mayor of our city.”