Council chief’s cancer diagnosis

THE leader of Somerset County Council has announced that he has been diagnosed with kidney cancer.

Bill Revans became leader of the council following the local elections in May, which saw his Liberal Democrats sweep to power after more than a decade of Conservative control.

Mr Revans, who represents the North Petherton division near Bridgwater, announced his diagnosis yesterday, saying he would continue to work remotely while awaiting surgery.

In his absence, deputy leader Liz Leyshon will preside over a number of public meetings.

Mr Revans, pictured, who also serves on Sedgemoor District Council, tweeted the news as the county council’s executive committee met in Taunton.

He said: “Hospital staff have been told me they expect to be able to operate shortly and I have been undergoing further tests to find out if it has spread. A massive thank you to my family, friends and colleagues for their amazing support.”