Caroline Kerr became Kingston Council Leader just as the first national lockdown came into force.

The Liberal Democrat member for Canbury and former broadcast journalist spoke exclusively to Nub News about her time in the role thus far.

On the challenges of the role so far Cllr Kerr said: "It has been an extraordinary nine months, quite unlike anything in my life.

"It truly has been a very strange experience getting to know people virtually.

"I have been unbelievably busy - but this role is the most stimulating and demanding thing I've ever done."

Cllr Kerr was also keen to praise the council staff for their hard work during the pandemic.

She said: "I am very proud of the council's response to COVID - our officers have astounded us with their amazing work.

"They really have done everything they could such as setting up Kingston Stronger Together and the befriending service."

Cllr Kerr also pointed out the successful plan to build 101 new council homes - the first to be built in the borough for 25 years as a source of pride.

However the council leader is under no illusion that 2021 will be an easy year.

"Our biggest task ahead is to to allow our timetable slip," she said.

Cllr Kerr added: "We have an ambitious agenda of regeneration - but we need to focus on supporting businesses as well."