John Tanner, former leader of Oxford City Council, has been appointed Deputy Lord Mayor.

Last month, the Deputy Lord Mayor of Oxford, Maureen Christian, was forced to stand down after inadvertently finding herself in breach of the city council's new constitution.

Labour councillor Mrs Christian was elected unopposed as deputy mayor in May.

But it was discovered that it is unconstitutional for her to hold the office while a member of Oxford City Council's executive, where she holds the portfolio for culture.

At last night's (October 14) council meeting, fellow Labour councillor Mr Tanner, who represents Littlemore ward, was elected as her replacement, and he will assist Lord Mayor Gill Sanders with her ceremonial duties.

Labour councillor Bob Price, who proposed Mr Tanner for the role, said it was surprising that he had accepted because he had often called for the abolition of the post in the past.

Mr Price said: "John has tremendous pride in the city and will make a superb Deputy Lord Mayor, and ultimately Lord Mayor." Mr Tanner did not comment on his earlier stand against the position.