Two Kent County Councillors who represent Tunbridge Wells have been promoted in the authority’s reshuffle.
Council Leader Paul Carter has made the changes after Cllr John Simmonds resigned his post as Cabinet Member for Finance, due to ill health.
His position has been filled in sort by Cllr Peter Oakford, who has become Cabinet Member for Finance and Traded Services.
The member for Tunbridge Wells North, Cllr Oakford will also continue in his role as Deputy Leader of the authority and represent St John’s on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council.
Cllr Catherine Rankin, who notably lost her seat on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in May to Tunbridge Wells member Nick Pope, is another to move up.
As a county councillor for Tunbridge Wells South, Cllr Rankin has joined the Cabinet as portfolio holder for Strategic Commissioning.
Cllr Graham Gibbens continues as Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and also takes on responsibility for Public Health.
As Leader of the County Council, Cllr Carter will retain responsibility for Health Reform. The remainder of the Cabinet is unchanged.
The county council is governed by the ruling Conservative Party, who have 67 of the 81 members – including all of those in Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge.
MOVING UP Cllr Catherine Rankin has become portfolio holder for Strategic Commissioning
