Breckland Council has elected Richard Duffield as its new chairman.

Mr Duffield, who was handed the chain of office by outgoing chairman Kate Millbank, was elected to the authority in 1999 representing the Lincoln Ward.

He said: 'I am looking forward to the coming year, especially the opportunities I will have to meet people from all walks of life and learn more about the great things they are doing for their communities.'

Mr Duffield, who lives in Gressenhall with his wife Christine, will raise funds for The Big C during his term of office, having had friends and family affected by cancer.

Councillor Lynda Turner, representing the Shipdham with Scarning ward, was appointed as vice chairman.

During her term of office, Ms Millbank organised a number of fund-raising activities for her chosen charity Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, including a skydive and Tough Mudder run.

She raised more than £4,000.

She said: 'It has been a memorable and very special year for me and I have thoroughly enjoyed all the events I have attended.

'I have met many remarkable people and I would like to thank everyone for their kindness and hospitality.'