Hale councillor Hannah Spencer has been appointed as the new leader of the Green Party group on Trafford Council, taking over from Michael Welton who held the position for two years.
Spencer, who was elected to represent Hale in May 2023 and works locally as a plumber, expressed her gratitude to her predecessor and excitement about her new role.
"I'm honoured to have been selected to lead the Green Party team on Trafford Council," Spencer said.
"Since I was elected, I've been part of a group who've taught me so much about how the council works and the best ways I can speak up for residents."
She added: "This new role will see me take on new challenges and I could only do that with such a brilliant team of Green councillors around me. I'm really proud to show that anyone, from any background, is a welcome voice in politics."
Spencer also paid tribute to Welton's achievements during his tenure: "Michael has consistently held the council to account and worked so hard for residents in Trafford, his work on road safety across Trafford will have a lasting impact."
The Green Party has been making significant inroads in the area, now holding all the seats across Altrincham and Hale. In last May's local elections, Green candidate Bridget Green came within just 21 votes of winning a seat in neighbouring Bowdon from the Conservatives.
Outgoing leader Michael Welton, who began his term in July 2023, said: "Hannah has proven herself to be a powerful speaker in the council chamber and a hugely talented campaigner, not least as the Green Party's Greater Manchester Mayoral candidate last year. She will bring a fresh vision to our group as our fourth group leader."
Zack Polanski, Deputy Leader of the Green Party of England and Wales, added: "Hannah has demonstrated consistent commitments to both her ward residents and to Trafford. She has the leadership and drive to really make a difference for local communities. Thank you to Michael for all his hard work and I'm excited to see Trafford Greens grow."
