A NEW leader of Worcestershire County Council has been appointed for the first time in five years - with Simon Geraghty calling it "a great honour".

After Councillor Adrian Hardman's shock drink driving charge and resignation the 39-year-old took over at County Hall today following three turbulent weeks.

Councillor Geraghty, who is quitting as Worcester City Council leader, was elected unopposed this morning and pledged to "do Worcestershire proud" in the top job.

But it proved a day of contrasting emotions for Councillor Hardman, who was pulled over by police in Tewkesbury three days before Christmas and failed a breath test.

The 59-year-old, who is appearing before Cheltenham Magistrates this Monday, sat completely isolated from other councillors after being suspended from the Tory group at the back of the chamber.

No tributes were paid to his leadership and he left two hours into the full council meeting, just halfway through the proceedings without getting involved in any of the debates.

Councillor Geraghty, who was elected unopposed to loud applause, becomes the youngest leader of any top-tier council in the country.

Other Conservatives endorsed his rise to the top, saying he had served the role as deputy leader "with distinction" for five years.

Councillor John Campion, the cabinet member with children and families, said: "Leading this council is an enormous honour, but it comes with a huge responsibility.

"Simon has served this authority with distinction as its deputy, he's led another council and has shown he can play that leadership role.

"He's very much wanting to build a consensus and fight the middle ground - now is his time to step up to the plate.

"I think it's one of the best jobs in this county, I know he's stepping down from Worcester City (Council) but their loss is our gain."

Fellow Tory Councillor Sheila Blagg added: "I've always found him to be open, honest and have a high level of integrity."

Councillor Geraghty acknowledged the "difficult circumstances" which resulted in his elevation but spoke of his relish at the challenge.

"I believe in Worcestershire, I was born here, I live here and it's a real honour to take this county forward," he said.

"Despite all the challenges we face I believe this council has a key role in shaping this county's future.

"It is both an honour and a privilege."

He also told the chamber he will take over responsibility for finance, a role done by Councillor Hardman for more than a decade.

Councillor Geraghty has quit his old role as cabinet member for economy, skills and infrastructure, leaving a vacancy in the Conservative leadership team which he will fill by the weekend.

Today also saw Councillor Anthony Blagg, who has the environment brief, elected new deputy leader.

After the meeting he released a statement pointing to the "great progress" made at County Hall in recent years, saying "Simon and I are determined to continue to deliver great services to this fantastic county of ours".

Councillor Hardman has already said he will plead guilty in court, calling his drink driving a "gross misjudgement".