BREAM businessman Richard Leppington is to take over as chairman of the Forest of Dean Branch of UKIP as they prepare to fight the County Council elections.

Councillor Alan Preest has been appointed as vice-chairman for the area.

Professor Tim Congdon was approved as prospective parliamentary candidate for the Forest.

Mr Leppington said: "We intend to build on our local and national success. We will contest every Forest seat. Voters will have a chance for an alternative to the three main failed parties."