The out-going boss of Dudley has been praised for her hard work and dedication at her last full council meeting.

Sarah Norman, who has led the authority for four years,  is leaving to become the new chief executive of Barnsley Council.

Her departure was marked with fulsome praise as she presided over her last meeting.

Councillors from both parties spoke of her successes in attracting £449 million Midland Metro  line and improving care services while chief executive of Dudley.

Sarah Norman.

Cllr Qadar Zada, Labour group leader, saying the job could be a lonely one, commented:  “I have seen for myself the personal energy she has invested in this borough and in particular the amount of energy she has invested in securing the investment  in the Midland Metro for Dudley."

He joked: “I know for a fact that she will miss me and she will miss Cllr Harley in equal volumes,” adding, “she will miss the politics of Dudley as she goes somewhere which will not have the volatility that we experience here.”

Cllr Patrick Harley, Conservative leader, outlying some of her successes said: “We have the improvement in children's services and let’s not forget the improvements in adult social care and the massive improvements we have had in that remit,  particular the better care fund. 

“That money could have been wasted and not put to good use but it was and we have received national recognition for those achievements.”

Ms Norman, announcing her departure in March, said:  “I will be sad to leave Dudley but will leave with great satisfaction at what has been achieved and I have every confidence in the colleagues I leave at the council and partner organisations in the borough who I am sure will continue to deliver the exciting plans set out in the borough vision.   

Kevin O’Keefe will take over the top job in the authority after working as the director of governance at Wolverhampton Council.