A 25-year-old councillor has become the youngest person elected to a top role within the Waltham Forest Tories.

As part of sweeping changes the Conservatives elected cllr Millie Balkan as deputy leader and cllr Alan Siggers as leader of the opposition.

Born and raised in Waltham Forest, cllr Balkan went to Highams Park School and now represents Larkswood ward in Chingford.

After ten years as leader cllr Matt Davis is making way for cllr Siggers, who has represented his Valley ward in Chingford for 15 years.

The new Tory group leader said: “I am delighted and honoured that my fellow councillors have entrusted me with the incredibly important role of Leader of the Opposition in Waltham Forest.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

New leader of the opposition, cllr Alan Siggers

“I would like to thank Cllr Matt Davis for the sterling job he has done as Conservative Group Leader and Leader of the Opposition over the last ten years.

“We intend to get on with the job of fighting for the best deal for the people of our borough and will be working hard to ensure the return of the Conservatives to Government with a significantly increased majority on June 8, which will be good for the country and good for Waltham Forest.”

Former group leader cllr Davis said it is the “time to stand down” and “let someone else take up the mantle” ahead of the 2018 local elections.

He said: “This has been a very difficult decision for me to make but I believe that it is the right one at the right time for both the group and myself.

“The Conservative Party goes into the election on June 8, and into the subsequent local elections in 2018, in rude health and with great optimism.”

“I wish to thank all my colleagues and the Borough’s residents for the support I have received over the years.”