Councillor Hugh Hunter will be responsible for the Portfolio for Health and Social Care, while Councillor William Grant will assume the Portfolio for Education.

The council also agreed to a number of changes to representation on panels.

Councillor Martin Dowey, leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “I am delighted that Councillor Pollock has been appointed depute leader of the council. Councillor Pollock has considerable experience in public service and I’m sure he will hit the ground running. He will also continue in his role as Portfolio Holder for Economic Development.

“I am also pleased to welcome Councillors Grant and Hunter as new members of the cabinet. Councillor Hunter has served the people of South Ayrshire for many years and is passionate about the health and wellbeing of local people.

“Councillor Grant has a wealth of experience and brings significant knowledge as he returns to the role of Portfolio Holder for Education.

“In welcoming councillors to their new cabinet roles, I would also like to take the opportunity thank Councillor Ferry and Councillor Lyons for the support they provided to the administration during their time as Portfolio Holders.”

Councillor Bob Pollock, depute leader of South Ayrshire Council and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “I am honoured to take on the role of depute leader of the Council. I am absolutely committed to the people of South Ayrshire, and it will be my pleasure and privilege to work alongside my colleagues in the Cabinet and the council’s leadership team to ensure we continue to deliver high quality services to local people.”

Councillor William Grant, portfolio holder for education, said: “I am absolutely delighted to return to the role of Education Portfolio Holder. South Ayrshire has a fantastic educational service and I look forward to working to support the continued success and positive destinations of local children and young people.”

Councillor Hugh Hunter, portfolio holder for health and social care, added: “I am excited by the opportunity presented to me of taking on the Portfolio for Health and Social Care. These services are critical to the health and wellbeing of our communities, and I will be supporting our front-line and support staff to the best of my ability. This is an important role which I am humbled to be entrusted with. I relish the challenge and will it give my all.”