EAST Ayrshire's new provost has promised to bring more "passion and enthusiasm" to the role.

Claire Leitch, who had served as depute provost, takes over the role from Jim Todd, who stepped down recently due to personal circumstances.

Councillor Todd intends to maintain his ward role within East Ayrshire Council.

Labour councillor John Ghee will take on the job of Cllr Leitch's civic duty understudy.

READ MORE: Rock n' Roll provost steps down from 'privileged' position

Having being teamed with Cllr Todd for many years, Cllr Leitch is now looking forward to taking on the top seat as provost moving forward.

Provost Claire Leitch.Provost Claire Leitch (Image: David Gordon) Provost Leitch said: “Being elected as provost is such a privilege and I want to thank former provost Todd for his incredible support over the last few years while I have served as depute provost.

"He has been a magnificent civic leader and role model and will be a very hard act to follow.

“I aim to serve our communities with the same passion and enthusiasm as Councillor Todd did for so many years, and I can assure the people of East Ayrshire of my sincere commitment to this important role.”

Depute provost McGhee.Depute provost McGhee (Image: David Gordon) Depute provost McGhee added: “I’m honoured to have been awarded this role, and I thank my colleagues for their support.

“I will continue to support my constituents in Ward 1, Annick, and very much look forward to working with provost Leitch to represent East Ayrshire and to promote all that is great about it during my time as depute provost.”