A trio of resignations and the election of a different chairman have heralded a new era for a troubled north Norfolk parish council.

Former Knapton Parish Council chairman Sally Dodd, her councillor husband Norman and vice chairman Lorraine Shakespeare all announced their resignations at Tuesday's annual meeting.

The move follows a long period of often-bitter wrangling in the village between the Dodds and their supporters, and other residents over the way in which the Madra - Mundesley and District Recreation Association - is run, and about control of the parish allotments.

Bea Gatfield was elected as the new chairman, and John East as vice chairman. The council has two other members, Mary Allan and Patrick Lee.

Parish council clerk Dee Holroyd said official resignation letters had not yet been received but it was likely that the vacancies would be filled by co-option.

Graham Jones, district and county councillor for the area, said: 'It has been a deeply-distressing year or so for many villagers with so much conflict.

'I hope that Sally and Norman can now get back some normality in their lives and I congratulate Bea Gatfield on her election as chairperson and I am confident that she has the skills and talents to move the parish council on to calmer waters.

'I am certain that all residents will wish her well and give the support that she needs and deserves.'