THE leader of City of York Council's main opposition group has reshuffled his pack in preparation for the 2003 local elections.

Liberal Democrat leader Steve Galloway said he is "delighted" the group has unanimously elected the new shadow executive team.

Irene Waudby, who is due to step down as Lord Mayor on Thursday, will assume her former role as shadow executive member for local affairs and community safety.

Another former Lord Mayor, Peter Vaughan, will step down from the shadow executive to chair the scrutiny board.

Coun Vaughan's new role will see him overseeing the work and decisions of council leader Rod Hills.

Coun Galloway said: "This team will hold the executive to account and lead the party over the months running up to next year's vital local election.

"The people of York deserve a more effective and imaginative leadership on the council, and Liberal Democrat councillors are determined to provide the leadership our city needs.

"I am delighted that Irene Waudby will once again take up a front line role after the completion of her successful year as Lord Mayor. Peter Vaughan will retain a key role in scrutinising the leader of the council."

The full list of Lib Dem members elected to shadow executive positions is:

- Leader: Steve Galloway

- Education: Charles Hall

- Environment and Green Issues: Andrew Waller

- Housing: David Livesley

- Leisure and Heritage: Mick Bradley

- Local Affairs and Community Safety: Irene Waudby

- Planning and Transport: Ann Reid

- Social Services: Sue Galloway.

Updated: 11:21 Tuesday, May 21, 2002