The council has reassigned some of its top jobs following the death highly respected councillor Mike O'Brien.

The retired insurance broker, who was head of children's services, passed away on Thursday.

His post will now be taken over by Cllr Andrew Mackness, supported by Cllr Martin Potter.

Cllr Mackness takes on the role of portfolio holder for children’s services with immediate effect and will be responsible for areas including looked after children, early years and adoption.

He continues in his role as chairman of Medway Commercial Group.

His previous corporate services portfolio will now be split between existing cabinet members Cllr Adrian Gulvin, Cllr Jane Chitty and Cllr Rupert Turpin.

Cllr Potter, who is new to the cabinet, will oversee the educational attainment and improvement strand of the children’s services portfolio.

Leader of Medway Council Cllr Alan Jarrett said: “Following the sad news last week, I have appointed Cllr Andrew Mackness to work on the children’s services portfolio.

"Together with Cllr Martin Potter, I am confident the good work in this area will continue.”

Cllr Mackness said: “I am dedicated to continuing the good work of Cllr Mike O’Brien and I look forward to getting to know officers within children’s services who I know work tirelessly to keep this large area of the council running smoothly.”