TENDRING will lead the way in a national pilot scheme to develop the Big Society.

An announcement made late on Tuesday evening revealed that Tendring Council would effectively replace Liverpool City Council in exploring how the concept would work.

Although not officially part of the project Tendring will join three other councils in working with the Department for Communities and Local Government.

The news was announced to a full council meeting just minutes before councillors narrowly voted to pass the proposed budget for the coming year.

For more details see Wednesday's Gazette.