The outgoing chief executive of North West Leicestershire District Council has been told that she had halted a 'daggers drawn' mentality at the Coalville-based authority.

Bev Smith received a glowing tribute in a farewell speech to Coalville councillors on Thursday evening.

She is leaving the Coalville-based authority to take up a position as Chair to the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales.

And at Thursday's full council committee meeting, North West Leicestershire District Council chairman Virge Richichi saic he was 'mortified' to see her leave.

Cllr Richichi told councillors: "Bev has been with us for five years and has been a breath of fresh air for this council.

"She changed the regime completely.

"Hand on heart, I've never heard anyone say anything disrespectful about Bev.

"She's put a smile on everyone's face.

"The officers here are now working together as opposed to having daggers drawn.

"And that can only be attributed to Bev's style and the way she's led this council.

"I personally am mortified she's leaving us, whoever comes next will have a really diffiuclt job stepping into Bev's shoes.

"It'll be up to all of use to help the new Chief Executive along."

In response, Ms Smith said: "The role of Chief Executive can be quite a lonely one sometimes.

"A lot depends on building a relationship with people on a day to day basis.

"I have valued the respectful and supportive relationship I've built in every one of you.

"I feel people should be empowered to be who they need to be, that's very important."