Monmouthshire County Council's Conservative and Liberal Democrat groups have announced their intention to form a partnership administration.

County Council elections on May 3 saw the Conservatives win 19 seats and the Liberal Democrats three seats.

A partnership administration will have 22 of the council's 43 seats and will be launched at a press conference at to be held today (Thursday) at the Shire Hall in Monmouth.

Councillor Peter Fox, Leader of the Conservative Group, said: "I am excited at this opportunity for a partnership administration to build on Monmouthshire's record of innovation and achievement.

"We intend to take forward a progressive agenda to capitalise on the very real partnership opportunities presented by this new administration in Monmouthshire and beyond."

Councillor Phil Hobson, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group said, "We all share a passion for Monmouthshire.

"I know the partnership will provide the county we treasure with confident, inclusive and energetic leadership for the next five years.

"I share Councillor Fox's excitement at the opportunities that this partnership will present us.

"I know that the combined energies of

this partnership will give all the people of the County of Monmouthshire a place they can continue to be proud of."

• Late on Tuesday it was confirmed that the new Chairman of Monmouthshire County Council is to be Abergavenny member, Councillor Maureen Powell who represents the town's Castle ward. Councillor Powell was described by Councillor Fox as 'great lady' and a 'solid ambassador' for the county.