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Two Dorset councils have agreed to share a chief executive in an effort to save about £400,000 a year.

Christchurch Borough Council and East Dorset District Council said the move would save each council £50,000 a year.

The new post will be filled by one of the two serving chief executives, Michael Turvey at Christchurch and David McIntosh at East Dorset.

A joint management team will also save the two councils about £300,000 a year as part of a package of savings.

Christchurch council leader Alan Griffiths said: "The ongoing economic downturn has had a far-reaching impact on the public sector.

"We already have a good track record of working together and this has created mutual respect and trust."