Labour deputy group leader Laura Crane has vowed to 'work relentlessly to get the best for children and families' after being appointed as the new committee chairman.

Cllr Crane replaces Middlewich councillor Carol Bulman (Lab) who has been chairman of children and families for nearly two years.

It is the latest in changes at the top since the troubled children's services was judged to be inadequate by Ofsted last year.

Last summer Deborah Woodcock quit as executive director of children's services after being in post for two and a half years.

Cllr Crane told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "As Carol steps down, I want to thank her for all the work she's done over the last few years and know that I have big shoes to fill.

"My role as the member champion for SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) means I am well placed to step up to the chairmanship.

"Using my lived experience as a local mum of four children, some with additional needs, I will work relentlessly to get the best for children and families across Cheshire East."

The Sandbach councillor, who is also currently vice-chairman of the highways and transport committee, added: "Further changes will be made in the coming weeks.

"I will be moving away from my role in highways and transport but want to ensure a smooth transition for my incoming replacement."