The new Conservative leader of Kingston Council has said he will no longer take PR work within the borough through his firm Cratus.

Councillor Kevin Davis was installed as leader last week.

The firm's clients have included CNM Estates, with Cratus helping present plans for the old Gala Bingo hall last year, and Amro, the company behind the new student flats at 1, Penryhn Road.

Coun Davis said: “We are not doing any work for CNM. Cratus has pulled out of Kingston. We took a commitment some time ago that we will not work where we have elected members.”

In a web statement the company said: “In line with our company policy and desire to prevent any conflict of interest we will honour existing commitments, but will no longer accept any more work in connection with the Royal Borough.

“We wish Kevin well in working with his new councillor colleagues in serving Kingston residents over the next four years.”