THE council leader has been elected as chairman of the North West Leaders Board.

Cllr Terry O'Neill (LAB – Burtonwood and Winwick) will hold the post for a three-year term following the election earlier this month.

The panel provides a 'united voice' for the region on key issues surrounding the national and regional stage.

It was established seven years ago to replace the North West Regional Assembly.

Sir Richard Leese, leader of Manchester City Council, has chaired it from its foundation up until now.

The board represents councils, businesses and the third sector in the region, while working on strategic issues affecting more than one administration, such as major transport infrastructure or an environmental issue.

Cllr O'Neill said: "I am looking forward to taking a leading role on the board and will use my time as chairman to make a strong case to Government on issues that affect our region.

"I would like to thank Sir Richard, the former chairman since its inception, for his vision and commitment to the board and for his outstanding contribution in ensuring we have a collective voice for the north west.

"Warrington is a high growth location and we are ideally located, halfway between Liverpool and Manchester with many key national transport links, to understand the challenges and opportunities the region faces."