YORK'S Labour group has named a new leader.

Cllr Pete Kilbane, who represents Micklegate ward, will take over from the previous group leader Cllr Danny Myers.

He said he is "honoured and proud to be leading the Labour Group and looks forward to holding this administration to account".

The ruling Liberal Democrats welcomed Cllr Kilbane to his new role, but said he is a "far-left leader".

Lib Dem Anne Hook said: “Following another disastrous set of elections across the country just last week, it’s surprising to see the local Labour party elect a far-left leader, even after local and national voters have been clear in their rejection of such divisive politics."

“Whilst internal turmoil and infighting continues to be the staple of both the local and national Labour party, the Lib Dem led administration will continue to deliver for residents with progressive, constructive and sensible ideas underpinning our plans.

“Nonetheless, the Lib Dem Group would like to welcome Cllr Kilbane into his new role. Whilst his personal politics are far removed from the approach this administration is offering to the city, we hope he will now engage constructively on what matters to residents.”

But Cllr Kilbane said: “I’m honoured and proud to be leading the Labour Group and look forward to holding this administration to account.

"‘Far left’ is odd way to describe someone who has set up successful small businesses and was chair of their local traders’ association."

"Labour believes in an open, honest and transparent council and will work hard to clean up politics in York, and restore faith in a council whose reputation has been so badly tarnished by the actions of this Lib Dem-Green ruling administration."