Former Kirklees Council leader David Sheard has been dramatically re-elected as leader of the Labour group.

The Heckmondwike councillor was re-elected following a meeting on Monday evening among the group, while Cllr Shabir Pandor was voted deputy leader.

In a joint "statement of unity", the two councillors said: “Since annual council just a few weeks ago, unforeseen events both locally and nationally have shocked and appalled us.

"Whatever has gone before between us is resolved and we believe it is right for Kirklees Labour, as the largest group on the council, to come together as quickly as possible and provide strong leadership for local people.

"If we are successful in becoming Leader and Deputy Leader of the council, we will work closely with each other - and indeed with every councillor in the chamber - to achieve the best outcomes for Kirklees."

Clr Sheard, a councillor for 32 years, was ousted as leader last month by fellow councillors amid anger about plans to develop large swathes of green land.

At the time, Clr Sheard said he was sad to be standing down although he added that it was a "weight off my shoulders".

Shabir Pandor had hoped to replace him but was snubbed in a council chamber vote.

Council chief executive Adrian Lythgo became temporary leader, only the third time in the authority's history that its chief officer has taken both roles.