THE chairman of Malvern Hills District Council, Coun George Price, has joined the Lib Dem group on the council.

Coun Price, who represents the Tenbury ward, was elected to the council on an independent ticket.

He said: "As chairman of the council I have been in a unique position to judge its performance over the past four years, and I am very happy to join the Lib Dems in their efforts to deliver good value and quality services,"

His move had been welcomed by council leader Di Rayner, who said: "George is an experienced and well-respected councillor. He has been an exemplary council chairman and commands respect from all sides of the chamber,"

Lib Dem parliamentary candidate Richard Burt said: "He is a superb representative for Tenbury and works tirelessly for the benefit of the town. We are delighted to welcome him on board,"

Last week, MHDC's Lib Dem group lost a member when coun Patrick Mewton, who represents Pickerleigh in Malvern, changed his allegience to the Conservative group.