THE town of Witney is being run by both a leader and a mayor for the first time, as part of a shake-up within the council.

Chris Holliday has been elected mayor of the town, taking over from Jim King, while Toby Morris, the new district councillor for Witney North, has been elected as council leader.

Council clerk Sharon Groth explained: "We've had a review of our standing orders and protocols and decided to create this position. We know it's being done in some larger town councils across the country.

"It's more of a strategic thing really.

"Toby is more involved in the running of the council and the mayor Chris is involved in civic and ceremonial duties. It opens up the opportunity to become mayor more than before, as it's not really political."

Chris Woodward has also been elected as the deputy leader and also deputy mayor of the town council.

Elsewhere in the town, district councillor for Witney East James Mills has been chosen at the new Conservative leader in West Oxfordshire.

He is expected to become leader of West Oxfordshire District Council at an election on Wednesday at the council offices.

Mr Mills replaces leader for 12 years Barry Norton, also Conservative, who took the decision to step down due to health problems.

The meeting, where the election is due to take place, will be held on Wednesday at 2pm in the council chamber at Woodgreen.