THE leader of Somerset West and Taunton Council narrowly avoided being removed from the post in a group party meeting last night.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts, who has been in the role for two years, held on by the skin of her teeth after a vote was called at the LibDems annual general meeting.

She and Cllr Simon Coles both polled 15 votes and Cllr Smith-Roberts managed to cling on through a random computer decision.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts

Cllr Federica-Smith

Cllr Simon Coles

Cllr Simon Coles

Cllr Simon Coles

Cllr Smith-Roberts was declared the winner by use of a computer algorithm - the modern equivalent of tossing a coin.

Cllr Coles had led the LibDems to power in the SWT local election in May 2019 and was seeking to take back the reins of the party.

But, as in a group vote after that election win, the vote was again tied.

Cllr Coles, who is also a county councillor, said the LibDem group holds an internal AGM every year just like any other organisation.

After the result was declared, he said: "I have said I will continue to support Federica of course.

"I'm a party animal. I support my party.

"I was very pleased to have the support of my colleagues, but group have made their decision."

The County Gazette has left a message seeking a comment from Cllr Smith-Roberts.