Douglas councillors elected their new leader yesterday.

Claire Wells, who represents the south constituency, takes the top position after David Christian, who led the council for more than 20 years, stepped down and did not seek re-election.

The council leader job is not paid.

The council has slimmed down. Instead of 18 members it now has 12.

The committees were also elected.

Executive committee: Claire Wells (chairman), Stephen Pitts, Ian Clague, Falk Horning and Janet Thommeny.

Housing and property committee: Janet Thommeny (chairman), John Skinner, Steven Crellin and Peter Washington.

Regeneration and community committee: Stephen Pitts (chairman), Natalie Byron, Andrew Bentley and Frank Schuengel.

Environmental services committee: Falk Horning (chairman), Natalie Byron, John Skinner and Devon Watson.

Pensions committee: John Skinner (chairman), Falk Horning, Steven Crellin, Janet Thommeny and Andrew Thomas (independent member).

Representatives on outside bodies:

Eastern district civic amenity site joint committee: Natalie Byron; Douglas Town Band committee: Peter Washington, (one vacancy); Isle of Man Municipal Association: Frank Schuengel and Peter Washington