Aberdeenshire Council’s leader Mark Findlater has been ousted amidst reports of unrest within the Conservative group.
Councillor Gillian Owen - a long-time friend of former Prime Minister Theresa May - has been elected as the new leader of the local authority's Conservative group following a meeting on Saturday night.
Aberdeenshire Council is currently run by a Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Independent administration. As the Tories are the largest party, it is expected that Mrs Owen will be confirmed as the new council leader.
However, changes in the leadership of the council need to be agreed by all councillors at the next full council meeting.
Ms Owen said: “I would like to thank members for their backing at the AGM vote.
“Since he was first elected, Mark has been an exemplary councillor, and deserves credit for his hard work and commitment to Troup and all of Aberdeenshire.”
Mr Findlater added: “It has been an honour and a privilege to lead the Aberdeenshire Conservative group during one of the most challenging times local democracy has faced.
“I wish Gillian all the best in her new role.”
The leadership switch follows similar drama in neighbouring Aberdeen earlier this month, when Alex Nicoll, the SNP co-leader, said he would not seek re-election at his party’s AGM.
He was replaced by Christian Allard, who will be confirmed as co-leader of the council tomorrow.