NAMES of those taking Colchester's top council posts have been unveiled after three political parties struck a power-sharing deal to keep the Tories out.

Liberal Democrat, Independent and Labour councillors will form the cabinet, the council's core decision-making body, with Liberal Democrat deputy leader Anne Turrell at its helm.

Mrs Turrell will be proposed as the council's new leader after the annual mayor-making ceremony on Wednesday, while group leader Martin Hunt has been proposed as her deputy.

The Mile End ward councillor, of Mile End Road, Colchester, said: "We are committed to improving the quality of life for all residents who live and work in the town and surrounding areas, as well as businesses."

Labour group leader Tim Young will also hold a cabinet post, as will deputy Labour leader Tina Dopson and Highwoods Independent Beverly Oxford.