IF IT ain't broke, don't fix it' was the message coming from South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) as members geared themselves up for a new term of government.

Council leader Brendan Jameson and chairman Ian Stewart were both re-elected to their positions at Kendal Town Hall during the council's annual meeting.

Coun Andy Shine will also maintain his role as the council's deputy leader while coun Jonathan Brook was elected as the new vice-chairman.

Coun Jameson thanked fellow members at the meeting.

"I am delighted and feel extremely privileged to be the leader of the council for the second term. I will continue to work hard representing SLDC and the people of South Lakeland.

"The previous 12 months have been difficult, we did have problems and there was uncertainty because it is the first time that we have ever had a single administration. But we are used to it now," he said.

Coun Jameson paid tribute to coun Colin Hodgson, leader of the opposition, for his support over the authority's proposals for the Strong and Prosperous Communities White Paper.

He also paid tribute to outgoing chief executive Mike Jones, who was sitting his final council meeting before retirement.

"One of the reasons that I have remained so committed and enthusiastic is because of Mike's (Jones) support," said coun Jameson.

At the end of the meeting, Mr Jones said it had been an absolute privilege' to have been chief executive.

"I think back to the dark days four years ago and I think that we have the satisfaction of saying that SLDC is in a far better position these days.

"I have served with officers of superb quality and I know that any gaps that I may leave will be adequately filled and that is the sign of a good authority," he said.