THE ousted leader of Conwy council has written to all members of the authority warning of challenges in the future.

Cllr Gareth Jones lost a vote of no confidence last week and stepped down as leader and was replaced by cllr Sam Rowlands.

This followed the sacking of cllr Rowlands, from his position as cabinet member for finance, by cllr Jones, who claimed he was sacked for trying to bring opposition members into the council administration, which was run by a coalition of Conservatives, Independents and defectors from Plaid Cymru.

Cllr Jones said in the letter he was saddened by vote of no confidence and the series of events that lead to that vote: “I’m certain that the whole sorry episode has dented the public’s faith in our authority and in the democratic process at a time when trust in politicians is at an all time low.

The challenge now for Councillor Sam’s new Cabinet, as well as for all of us ordinary members is to rebuild trust and reputation and to focus on the many challenges ahead.

"That can only be done by working together towards a common goal whilst at the same time ensuring our political leaders and senior officers are held to account and deliver the best for our residents and for visitors to our county.

“I hope that my experience and my commitment to this Authority will provide a focus for that work and I look forward to working with you during this ‘new term’ to deal with the challenges and opportunities that will come our way.”

Cllr Jones added: "I’m writing to you at the end of a very difficult few weeks for me and my former cabinet colleagues and indeed the council as a whole."

On a personal level cllr Jones thanked members you for many messages of support and appreciation for my efforts during my time as Leader.