THE Conservative Group on Nottingham City Council has appointed a new leader.

Coun Andrew Price, who represents Clifton North, was elected at a group meeting.

He takes over following the death of Michael Cowan from cancer in June.

Coun Price is seen as a constructive critic of the ruling Labour group and his style will differ from his predecessor and Coun Georgina Culley, who held the post before Coun Cowan.

He said: "In opposition you can fall into two traps: you can get too close to the council or become a rent-a-quote, always criticising Labour.

"When they do a good job you should say so and concentrate criticism on them when they get things wrong.

"There is a time and place for the Punch and Judy of party politics but when you can problem-solve and work together you should not be looking to score points."

Coun Price works for the Learning and Skills Council.