Allerdale Council this week failed to appoint a leader after a motion nominating an independent councillor for the position was defeated.

The duties of leader will continue to be carried out by deputy leader Mike Johnson, who took them on in an interim capacity following the resignation of Marion Fitzgerald from the post in February.

A motion was brought before Monday’s full council meeting by independent councillor Nicky Cockburn, seconded by her independent colleague Will Wilkinson, for the election of independent councillor Paul Scott to the position of leader.

The St Johns Workington ward councillor has only been a councillor since May last year; however, Coun Cockburn said that since this time, Coun Scott had demonstrated “exemplary” commitment and hard work on behalf of the local community.

“He has shown leadership by example, transparency, inclusion, and his democratic behaviour,” she said.

The motion put before the council was defeated, by 26 votes against in comparison to 16 votes in favour, and one abstention.