The leaders of Suffolk's two largest councils have both been included in the six-strong shortlist for the Leader of the Year award from a national body.

The Local Government Information Unit has shortlisted Suffolk County Council leader Matthew Hicks and East Suffolk Council leader Caroline Topping for the "Leader of the Year" award.

Conservative Mr Hicks has been leader of the county since 2018 and the LGIU said the opening of the Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft, the county's housing partnership with Lovells and its work with other Suffolk councils on the eventually-abortive devolution plan had been major factors in his shortlisting.

They said: "His professionalism and expertise shone through in his nomination along with an unwavering dedication to driving progress and positive change across Suffolk County Council. This was recognised as benefiting staff, councillors, and residents alike."

Caroline Topping leads a coalition administration at East Suffolk.Caroline Topping leads a coalition administration at East Suffolk. (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Green councillor Ms Topping has been leader of a coalition administration at East Suffolk since May last year and the LGIU said it had been impressed by her ability to work with other groups to provide effective leadership for the district.

It added: "Her leadership has significantly benefited both residents and the Council. Cllr Topping’s nomination cited her ability to bring people together to achieve results, making sure she uses the talent and skills available to her, always with respect and good humour." 

Mr Hicks said he had no idea who had nominated him but he was delighted the work of the council had been recognised in this way.

He was pleased the co-operative work of the councils across Suffolk during the devolution talks had been recognised.

Mr Hicks added: “It’s a huge honour to be nominated for this award and it is testament to the great work done by Suffolk County Council members and staff under challenging circumstances.

"I’m proud that Suffolk is being recognised nationally but remain focused on providing the best possible services to the people of Suffolk.

Ms Topping was pleased the work of the coalition at East Suffolk Council - The Greens work with Liberal Democrats and an independent councillor - means they look for consensus on major decisions.

She said: "I've always said I don't know everything. We talk things through and agree on the issues - we seem to operate much more smoothly than some single-group authorities that argue among themselves!"