Surrey’s leader David Hodge insists residents still trust him despite calls for him to step down.

Hodge, who was re-elected to the position on Friday, is facing criticism over claims he brokered a ‘sweetheart deal’ with the government to avoid having a referendum on whether to raise Council Tax by 15% to help pay for social care.

Last week, Hodge was heard on a leaked recording saying ministers were “offering some extra funding”.

Council tax will now be increased by 4.99%.