A rumoured plot to oust the current leader of Buckinghamshire County Council could come to a head this afternoon with a private meeting scheduled for this afternoon.

Speculation has mounted on the future of Conservative councillor Martin Tett after comments reportedly made by fellow Tory Janet Blake last week that cabinet member Peter Hardy was planning to challenge him.

And with a closed meeting of the Tory leadership set to take place this afternoon, it has fuelled rumours of a change at the top after Cllr Tett took on the role in 2011 from David Shakespeare.

Ruling party the Conservatives won 36 out of 49 seats at the 2013, ensuring they retain the majority at County Hall.

Cllr Hardy – who represents Gerrards Cross and currently holds the cabinet role for finance and resources – has so far not confirmed whether he will challenge for the leadership.

The meeting – closed to press, public and council officials – takes place this afternoon at 3pm.