THE county’s new political leader has warned “radical reform” is needed to weather the financial storm.

Councillor Adrian Hardman was appointed, unopposed, as Worcestershire County Council leader yesterday.

The former deputy leader said dealing with government cuts to council budgets was a reality which could not be tackled by the “cosy” notion County Hall could simply slash its budget.

He also warned there would be no quick fixes and instead set out a wider agenda for “radical reform” of council management and how it worked partly by using incoming government powers allowing councils to act more independently.

“We need to transform the way it works by embracing radical reform and the localism agenda,” he said.

Coun Hardman remains County Hall finance chief while Coun Simon Geraghty, current Worcester City Council leader, is the new deputy council leader retaining the planning, economy and performance portfolio.

He said he and Coun Hardman were the “ideal leadership team” in what were challenging times.

“We’re a new generation of leadership, which intends to deliver change – it’s not just about cuts.”

He said keeping roles at both councils would not hurt his ability to do either job.

Coun Hardman’s elevation followed the resignation of Dr George Lord, as councillor and council leader, earlier this month over allegations by five different female staff members of inappropriate behaviour.

Coun Hardman paid tribute to Dr Lord’s “considerable leadership, notwithstanding the current situation”.

• Your Worcester News understands Dr Lord is still the subject of a police investigation into a separate allegation of a sexual offence dating back about 30 years.

A police spokesman said: “We wish to interview a man and expect to do so shortly.”