Dignitaries from across Norfolk and further afield gathered at Robertson Barracks in Swanton Morley, near Dereham, for the official reception of Breckland Council chairman Bill Borrett.

Among the guests were Deputy Lieutenant of Norfolk Holly Rawkins, High Sheriff of Norfolk Major General Sir William Cubitt, RAF Marham Station Commander Group Captain Davies, officers from 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards and past and present chairmen and mayors from Norfolk councils.

Breckland councillors and senior management, and representatives from parish councils also attended.

Air Commodore Kevin Pellatt who is Chairman of SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families), Mr Borrett's chosen charity for his year of office, came to the reception to thank him for his support.

Mr Borrett was appointed Breckland Council chairman in May, 2016. His term of office will end in May this year.

He said: 'I have really enjoyed being the chairman of Breckland Council and through the role I have been privileged to meet so many of the interesting people who make life in Breckland happen. From the military based here at Robertson Barracks through to those who volunteer for the good of their communities. I have lived in the district for many years but have seen a whole new side to it in my relatively short time as chairman.

'I am delighted that I was able to hold my reception at Robertson Barracks, as I have chosen to use my term of office to support the excellent work that SSAFA does for servicemen and their families.'

Major Tim Jones from QDG said: 'We value our close relationship with Breckland Council and were pleased to have this opportunity to host councillor Borrett's official chairman's reception. Since our arrival in Breckland in 2015, everyone in the community has made us feel very welcome – it really is a very special place to live.'

A raffle was held for SSAFA. The charity provides lifelong support to current and former members of the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force.