CHESHIRE East Council leader Rachel Bailey will work to safeguard the borough’s businesses as the UK negotiates its exit from the EU.

The UK will leave the EU following Thursday’s referendum, in which 51.2 per cent of Cheshire East residents and 51.9 per cent of the UK voted out.

Cllr Bailey said: “It is clear and evident that there will be a period of negotiations with EU members to navigate a controlled exit.

“This council will work closely with the local business community, including our major employers, to help influence government policies in order to protect jobs and investment throughout the borough.

“We believe that we have a strong and resilient economy here in Cheshire East and we are proud it is home to some of not just Britain’s but some of the world’s leading technology companies – particularly in the growing automotive and life science sectors.

“I am clear that this council remains firmly committed to helping ensure that the local and wider economy – including our many small and medium-sized enterprises – thrives and delivers the growth, jobs and investment that benefit all our residents.”

Turnout in Cheshire East was 77.3 per cent, higher than the national average of 72.2 per cent.