One of Bath and North East Somerset's most senior opposition councillors has thanked the outgoing council chief for her service to the local authority.

Lib Dem Council Leader, Dine Romero, sensationally quit her £40,000 a year role last week for 'unknown reasons'.

Cllr Karen Walker, the Leader of the Independent Group on the Council, said:

"Whilst the real reasons for Cllr Romero's sudden departure last week have not been made public, I'd like to thank her for her time as Leader and wish her all the best for the future.

She has led the Local Authority through a difficult year over the past 12 months with the coronavirus pandemic. Her commitment to supporting the vulnerable and ensuring resources are available for those in need won't be forgotten."

The current political makeup of the council is 37 Lib Dems, 11 Conservatives, 6 Independents and 5 Labour.

Cllr Dine Romero's resignation as leader of the Liberal Democrats on the Council leaves Cllr Karen Walker as the only female group leader left on the local authority. All the other senior roles on the council are currently occupied by men.

"Dine had recently started a new piece of work around women's rights and protections before her unexpected resignation from office," added Karen, "I shall be writing to the chief executive to ensure this important piece of work continues."