The former leader of Norwich City Council today announced he was stepping down as leader of the city's Liberal Democrat group.

The former leader of Norwich City Council today announced he was stepping down as leader of the city's Liberal Democrat group.

After 10 years at the helm Ian Couzens, whose party lost control of City Hall at this year's local elections, said it was time for a change of leadership.

He said he reluctantly made the decision having been a political leader at City Hall for longer than any other councillor in the last 30 years.

Hereward Cooke, deputy leader, said: “Ian Couzens has been a greatly valued leader who has kept the party together and on the move. He was respected by councillors and members alike and managed to steer the party from days of opposition to leadership.

“He has also maintained his contact with the campaigning base of the party while leading the council with assured policies.”

Mr Couzens will remain a member of the Liberal Democrat group.

At a meeting of Liberal Democrat councillors tonight a new leader will be selected.

One of the contenders is Mr Cooke, who was deputy council leader for the four years the party was in power.