FORMER West Midlands Green party member of the European Parliament Ellie Chowns has taken on the role as leader of her group at Herefordshire Council.

The Bishops Frome and Cradley ward councillor is also taking up a new cabinet support role with responsibility for action on climate and ecology.

She will be working closely with her Green colleague Trish Marsh who is the environment, economy and skills cabinet member.

“I am delighted to take on these two key roles in Herefordshire,” coun Chowns said.

“Local action is vital to tackle the climate and ecological crisis – there’s so much more we can do in key areas including transport, housing and agriculture.

“This is a really exciting time, with lots of opportunities to protect wildlife better, and help us become a zero-carbon county.

“I’ve learned a lot from being a full-time MEP, and I’m looking forward to channelling that experience into local action now.”

“Trish Marsh has led the Green group very effectively during my time away, and I’d like to thank her and all my colleagues in the Green party, other members of the alliance, and all the local residents who have helped push the sustainability agenda forward while I’ve been working in Brussels.

“While I very much regret that the UK has left the EU, I’m glad to be able to put all my energy, skills and enthusiasm into helping Herefordshire become as green as possible.”