THE leadership of the power-sharing SNP group on Scottish Borders Council has been reshuffled in the run-up to September’s independence referendum.

Out goes John Mitchell, who has chaired the nine-member group for the past two years, and his deputy Donald Moffat.

Taking over these roles are Stuart Bell and Willie Archibald respectively.

A statement from the group said the new appointments “reflected the need to address the extra workload of councillors in the year ahead”.

Councillor Bell, elected for Tweeddale East in 2012 and a resident of Clovenfords, added: “The forthcoming referendum is an opportunity and challenge for Scotland to determine its own future.

“The growing cross-party Yes campaign is much wider than the SNP and our councillors will play a full part in supporting that campaign in all our communities.” The shake-up will not affect the special responsibilities of the four councillors within SBC’s ruling administration.

Councillor Mitchell, who represents Galashiels and District, will continue as SBC’s depute leader (finance), while Councillor Moffat (Mid Berwickshire) will remain as executive member and chair of the Police, Fire & Rescue and Safer Communities Board.

Councillor Bell is the council’s executive member for economic development and Councillor Archibald is convener of the licensing board.

The statement acknowledges that Mr Mitchell has “successfully steered the council through a difficult period of financial strategy” and that Mr Moffat’s role “has new significance” with the introduction of national police and fire services.