THE new chairman of Braintree Council for the coming year has been chosen.

Stephen Kirby (Conservative, Halstead St Andrews) will replace outgoing chairman Frankie Ricci (Conservative, Great Notley and Black Notley) in the role until this time next year.

Giving his final address as chairman at Braintree Council’s annual general meeting on Monday, Mr Ricci thanked councillors for their support and spoke to encourage people to volunteer around the district.

He said: “I have had the honour of visiting associations, clubs, community groups, crisis groups and I can happily report that the community spirit, charitable giving and volunteer sector is alive and intact.

“It is something that we need to be continually supportive of and proud of.”

Leader of the council Graham Butland praised Mr Ricci’s hard work and enthusiasm over the past year.

He said: “I have to say I think being chairman does actually bring the best out in people and you see people develop as well and I think we have seen that with this chairman over the last year.”

Mr Ricci was able to present his nominated charities Home Start with £1,653 and Essex Search and Rescue with £1,653.  

Mr Kirby, who served as deputy chairman during the past 12 months, said he was “honoured” to take up the role and would be using his position to promote what the Braintree district can offer residents and businesses.

Vanessa Santomauro (Conservative, Braintree South) has been selected as vice chairman.