THE council leader insists the executive board will deliver 'real change' for the town despite the financial difficulties ahead.

Terry O'Neill (LAB - Burtonwood and Winwick) was officially re-elected as leader for the next four years following a unanimous vote at last Thursday's annual council meeting.

Changes have been made to the executive board, which is now made up of 10 members, instead of nine.

Cllr Linda Dirir (LAB – Penketh and Cuerdley), who was portfolio holder for highways, transportation and climate change, and Cllr David Keane, who was portfolio holder for environment and public protection, are no longer on the board.

"It won't be easy in these austere times but I am confident that the executive board will deliver real change for this town," said Cllr O'Neill.

He also welcomed Cllr Stephen Taylor and Cllr Kath Buckley to the council, as well as sharing kind words for those who have left.

"My best wishes go to Celia Jordan and commiserations to Ian Marks - each were here for a long time," he said.

"I am sure Ian will be back some time."

Leader of the town's Liberal Democrat party, Bob Barr, thanked the leader for his speech but was keen to address the topic of devolution.

Cllr O'Neill admitted devolution was 'critical' for the town.

He added: "The time has gone when the council can rely on Westminster - we need some form of devolution.

"There needs to be some form of self-sufficiency.

"It is important to have our destiny in our own hands - that is true democracy."