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Replacement chosen for West Northants leader facing abuse claims

BBC Adam Brown with short ginger hair and beard wearing a suitBBC
Adam Brown said he was "delighted and honoured"

A replacement has been nominated for a council leader who resigned amid domestic violence allegations.

Jonathan Nunn left his post at West Northamptonshire Council after five women accused him of threatening and controlling behaviour.

Now the ruling Conservative group has selected Adam Brown as Mr Nunn's replacement.

Mr Brown is expected to be confirmed as council leader at the authority's annual general meeting on 16 May.

Jonathan Nunn with short grey hair and beard wearing a suit
Jonathan Nunn stepped down as leader following domestic abuse allegations, which he denies

A BBC investigation heard accounts from five women about Mr Nunn, who had led the council since 2021.

Police have confirmed they are making preliminary inquiries about the allegations, which Mr Nunn strenuously denies.

Mr Nunn said he had suffered a campaign of "relentless harassment".

Mr Brown, the council's deputy leader, was chosen to act in Mr Nunn's place temporarily. The Conservative group has now decided he should take over permanently.

Mr Brown, who lives in Northampton with his wife and young son, is a ward member for Bugbrooke and has been a councillor since 2016.

He said: "As somebody who was born and raised in the area, if the council does elect me as leader next month, to have the opportunity to serve the communities I know so well will be a fantastic privilege."

Matt Golby with very short grey hair wearing a suit
Matt Golby has been selected as the council's new deputy leader

Matt Golby, the council's cabinet member for adult care and wellbeing, has been selected as Mr Brown's deputy leader.

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