A former senior Halton Council officer is returning to help turn around the fortunes of its children's services department.

Zoe Fearon has been appointed executive director of children’s services, having served as director of children’s social care at Salford City Council since 2019.

Before that, she worked at Halton Council for 20 years, starting her career as a social worker and progressing to head of service for children in need/child protection.

Her appointment follows the departure of Milorad Vasic, who left the role in March after more than six years at the helm. His tenure coincided with the department receiving a succession of damning Ofsted reports, with it also running up a budget overspend of £10m.

The council said Ms Fearon - who takes up her new post at the end of October - has direct experience in working within education and with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

She said: "I am delighted to be returning. I'm excited to get started working alongside colleagues, partners, young people and their and families to support Halton’s ambitious vision to improving outcomes.

"I'm looking forward to building upon, and contributing to, the great work already underway across the council, utilising my extensive experience of working in Halton to support the delivery of the ambitious plans within children’s services."

She added: "My vision and values have always aligned strongly with Halton’s approach to supporting families, intervening early, building upon strengths and empowering people and communities, and it really is a privilege to be returning to Halton Borough Council in the prestigious role of executive director."

Halton's chief executive Stephen Young, said: “I am delighted that Zoe will be returning to the council, bringing to this vital role her already extensive local knowledge, wealth of skills and strategic leadership experience. I wish her every success when she takes up her new role.”