Liberal Democrats have elected popular Muswell Hill councillor Ross Laird as their new leader to follow Lynne Featherstone. Ms Featherstone, who is also a member of the Greater London Authority, has stepped down to concentrate on local campaigning and her GLA work after four years and considerable local successes in leading the party in Haringey.

Councillor Laird, who was previously Ms Featherstone’s deputy, received the unanimous backing of the 15-strong Lib Dem opposition group at their monthly meeting on Thursday night.

Councillor Laird was first elected to Haringey council in February 2000, after a spectacular by-election win. He has been the party’s education spokesman, and has consistently campaigned to ensure that Haringey’s privatised schools services can be held to account by local residents.

Alexandra ward councillor, Wayne Hoban, takes over as deputy leader. Lynne Featherstone retains a prominent role as Crime and Community Safety spokesperson, responsible for policing issues. Cllr Barbara Fabian (Fortis Green) takes over as Education spokesperson.

Commenting on his election, Ross Laird said:

“It is a great honour to lead such a successful local party, and to have had such a vote of confidence from fellow councillors. We will continue to hold Haringey Labour to account for the way it is running our borough.”

Lynne Featherstone adds:

“While I am in some ways sad to be stepping down, I know that the leadership is in Ross Laird’s very capable hands, and I will continue to be at the forefront of local campaigning. The policing brief is a great challenge, and we will continue to press for improvements in community policing in the west of the borough, in particular the reopening of the Muswell Hill front counter and a new police kiosk for Highgate.”