SOUTH West Euro MP Graham Watson has become the first UK Liberal Democrat to lead a political party in the European Parliament.

He been elected leader of the 53-member European Liberal, Democratic and Reform group.

The EDLR is the third largest political party in the European Parliament and has the balance of power since no one party has overall control.

"I am honoured to be asked by my colleagues to chart the course ahead," he said.

"Political parties need to be sailed rather than driven and I will pilot this ship with determination but with sensitivity.

"As group leader, my ability to represent my constituents in the key decision making bodies of the European Union will be enhanced."

EDLR was set up in 1976 to prepare for the first direct elections to the European Parliament in 1979. Today, it has 29 member parties and ten affiliates from across Europe.