WOMEN in Inverclyde now have a dedicated voice in the local corridors of power after the appointment of the area's first ever female champion.

Gourock councillor Lynne Quinn has assumed the role after being voted in by fellow elected members.

Mrs Quinn was influential is setting up Inverclyde Council's women's forum, which she chairs, and will now take on the ambassadorial role of women's champion with the aim of further promoting the issues of local ladies.

The independent councillor and Labour's Natasha Murphy were put forward for the role at a recent meeting and the former won 13-8 following a vote.

Mrs Quinn says she is 'delighted to become Inverclyde's first women's champion'. She said: "In May 2017, I was elected as one of only three female councillors. "I was concerned that this under-representation would mean that women's voices wouldn't be strong enough within the council. "Within the last two years I have managed to establish a women's forum and subsequently the women's champion role."

The council already has a series of 'champions' representing older citizens, young people, armed forces veterans, carers, welfare and sports.

A councillor is appointed to each role, becoming an ambassador and spokesperson for their brief.

Mrs Quinn says her position is more than just a title and she will use it to continue promoting women's issues, along with fellow members of the council.

The Gourock councillor said: "I have two main aims that I would like to achieve in this role.

"I want to consult widely to ensure the issues affecting women in Inverclyde are highlighted and their voices are heard when important decisions are being made.

"We have a number of fantastic women in our community who inspire me greatly, so as part of this role I would like to acknowledge and celebrate the breadth of female talent we have locally.

"I would like to thank my fellow councillors for having faith in me and voting me into this role. "I look forward to working with them all to achieve these aims. "I would love to hear from the women in the community, please contact me and let me know how I can support you."

To get in touch with Councillor Quinn, email lynne.quinn@inverclyde.gov.uk or phone 07768616616.