Mayor Dave Welcomes Tim Farron's Election as Liberal Democrat Leader

Mayor Dave Hodgson has welcomed the election of Tim Farron as the new Liberal Democrat Party Leader, following the announcement last night of his victory in the ballot of all party members.

Commenting, Mayor Dave Hodgson said: "Tim Farron will be an outstanding advocate for liberal values as Liberal Democrat leader. As I said during the campaign, Tim is a former district and county councillor, and his innate understanding of the power of local politics to improve people's lives for the better shines through. As elected Mayor and leader of a unitary council, that is extremely important to me."

This photograph was taken at a recent event in Bedford at which Tim Farron spoke to local party members, one of several visits to Bedford he has made in recent times.

Tim Farron gave a passionate speech following the announcement of his victory last night, and you can watch it here: http://www.libdems.org.uk/rally