Political turmoil has rocked Surrey County Council over the past week with the leader sacking his deputy and then announcing his own resignation, swiftly followed by his sacked deputy being elected in his place.

Dr Andrew Povey announced he is to stand down from his position as leader next month to concentrate on his business interests, just days after sacking his deputy leader David Hodge.

But two days after Mr Povey's resignation, it was announced Coun Hodge would return to the council as the Conservative group’s new leader.

As the Tories dominate the council, Councillor Hodge is expected take over running the county council at a full council meeting on October 11.

Mr Hodge said: "It is an honour to be elected as leader of the Conservative group and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of Surrey as county council leader subject to the decision of the Full Council.

"Between now and then I will be developing my plans for the future of Surrey and I will announce my new deputy leader and cabinet at the meeting, should the meeting confirm me as leader."

In a statement Dr Povey said: "I would like to congratulate David on his election as group leader.

"As deputy leader of the county council he spearheaded many initiatives that have helped transform the county council.

"I am proud of what we have achieved and I will be working closely with David to ensure there is a smooth handover to him subject to the decision of [the] full council."

Councillor Eber Kington, of the Residents Association, said Dr Povey had not chosen to resign but had been kicked out amid a continuing lack of confidence and disagreements with his deputy.

He said: "It has been a terrible week for the Conservatives at SCC with in-fighting, Andrew Povey at first unwilling to go, and no love lost between him and David Hodge."