The newly elected Chairman of Tendring District Council (TDC) has expressed his immense pride at taking on the role.

Dovercourt Vines and Parkeston ward councillor Bill Davidson was voted in as Chairman of TDC at the authority’s annual meeting on Tuesday, April 29.

Having served as Vice-Chairman for the past year, Councillor Davidson steps into the shoes of outgoing chairman Dan Casey.

Councillor Casey thanked members and council staff for their support during his time in office, during which he raised money for local good causes, including Clacton RNLI, the East of England Ambulance Service and Sonny’s Army, a Jaywick-based charity that helps families with children in hospital.

Speaking to fellow councillors, Councillor Davidson - who is also Chairman of Ramsey and Parkeston Parish Council – said: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all my fellow councillors for placing their trust in me by electing me as chairman.

“It is an honour and a privilege and I will do my upmost to hold the responsibilities of this role with dedication and integrity.

“I extend my sincere gratitude to the outgoing Chairman, Councillor Dan Casey, for all his hard work over the past year.

“I look forward to working closely with all councillors in the year ahead and thank them for this incredible opportunity.

“I will do my very best to serve you as chairman and represent this council with pride.”

Councillor Ann Oxley, who represents the Walton ward, was elected to serve as Vice-Chairman for the coming year.

In addition to presiding over TDC full council meetings, the Chairman of the council plays a ceremonial role, representing the council and district at various civic events.