Council leader Ken Maddock goes for police commissioner role

The Conservative leader of Somerset County Council has stood down from his post in a bid to become Avon and Somerset's police commissioner.

Ken Maddock will find out in June if he has been selected by his party as their preferred candidate.

"This is a very important job that needs to be done and I think I could do it really well," he said.

Police and crime commissioners will be elected in 41 areas across England and Wales on 15 November.

Mr Maddock said: "I've got experience of business and making the pounds go further.

"I also think I can listen to people, consult with them, find out what's on their mind so I can turn that into action."

The position of council leader will be ratified at the full council meeting on 16 May.

In December Bath councillor Lisa Brett put herself forward for selection as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the police commissioner role.