TENDRING'S new council leader has returned to the post after 23 years.

Mick Page was last leader of Tendring District Council in 1991.

The Tory veteran was chosen at a meeting of the full council last night.

Mr  Page, who represents the Homelands Ward in Walton, is also a Deputy Cabinet Member at Essex County Council.

He said local government has changed significantly since he was last Leader in 1991 – with more prescription and less money.

“The new environment has not only put more pressure on councils but also given us significant opportunities,” he said.

“For example the new coast protection scheme for Clacton to Holland-on-Sea has come together despite a lack of public funding but through partners working together more closely.”

Mr Page said that despite having to make savings of £5.5 million, the council has "great public services, a fantastic coastal scheme which will support inward investment, opportunities afforded by Harwich, the A120 economic growth corridor and the renewable energy industry".

Former council leader Peter Halliday quit in December following a rant at his fellow Tory councillors during a public meeting.