LIBERAL Democrats in Haringey have elected a campaigning councillor as their new leader.

Councillor Richard Wilson, who has been deputy leader since May 2007, replaces Councillor Robert Gorrie who has led the party in the borough since 2008.

Cllr Gorrie announced he would leave the post last month, saying he wanted to spend more time on issues affecting his Hornsey ward.

Cllr Wilson, who represents Stroud Green, said: “I am very proud to have the opportunity to lead a strong group of Liberal Democrat councillors in Haringey that will continue to stand up for residents against Labour's terrible stewardship of this borough.

“I will help us to provide a positive alternative vision of how Haringey Council could work with residents to improve the Borough.

“It’s time that the gloves come off in the fight to protect vulnerable people from Labour's ill-conceived cuts – to our older people’s day centres, youth service and children’s centres – and to reveal Labour’s waste and mismanagement.

“It is an honour to step into the shoes of former leaders such as Robert Gorrie, Neil Williams and Lynne Featherstone.

“I will follow in Lynne's footsteps by standing up for residents on the issues that really matter to them, and fighting for better services and a better Council.”

Outgoing leader Cllr Gorrie congratulated Cllr Wilson on his election and said the party had someone was eager to hold the council to account.

He said: “I’m delighted that in Richard Wilson we have a new leader for the group who is a proven and experienced local campaigner with a positive vision for the borough.”

Councillor Jim Jenks was also elected as the new deputy leader at the meeting on Wednesday night.

The former businessman was elected as a councillor for Muswell Hill for the first time last year, after moving to the borough with his wife and two step-daughters 25 years ago.