A CABINET reshuffle has been agreed at Darlington Borough Council, following the creation of a children's department.

The setting up of a children's services unit has resulted in the creation of new portfolios.

Councillor Chris McEwan becomes the authority's cabinet member for children's services.

Coun McEwan is moving from community protection to take up the role, which includes the management of children's services, foster carers, adoption and education services. It also includes the provision of services to families and children in need, and children with mental health difficulties.

Councillor Eleanor Lister is the new cabinet member for adult services, which includes the social services portfolio, adult education and warden call services.

Councillor Stephen Harker moves from education to consumer and environmental services.

Councillor Bill Dixon becomes cabinet member for community and public protection, overseeing youth offending, prevention of drugs and substance misuse, litter enforcement, community safety, closed-circuit television surveillance and housing.

Council leader Councillor John Williams said: "Areas of work such as children's services and community safety - which deals with anti-social behaviour - are just two of many high-profile services that will present tough challenges for the cabinet members.