DORSET County Council has elected a new leader after Councillor Spencer Flower stood down from the role after being charged under the Localism Act.
Council members last week elected Councillor Robert Gould as their new leader at a special meeting.
Verwood councillor Flower, 72, became leader in May 2013, and is still on the district council.
However he has pleaded not guilty to three charges of failing to properly declare an interest in a property company while taking part in debates on the county council. The case has been adjourned until April 24.
Cllr Peter Finney will take on the role of deputy leader.
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