A mid Norfolk town’s newest elected mayor has said it was an “unexpected surprise” to be given the title at the age of just 27 - becoming what is thought to be the council’s youngest civil leader in its history.

Stuart Green, who was elected at Dereham Town Council’s annual meeting, described the news as “good” and added that he was “really happy”.

A resident of the market town for more than 17 years, he said: “You’ve got to be passionate about the town and people you represent in order to do this role.

“Politics and government is something I’ve always been interested in, but I didn’t expect to be the mayor quite so soon.

“I’m really proud to be representing the younger generation, as well as Dereham itself. I know many of the good things about our town, and also what needs to be improved.”

Mr Green is a former Northgate High and Dereham Sixth Form College student and has lived in Dereham since the age of 10, and as well as being part of Breckland Youth Council, he was also part of the UK Youth Parliament.

And back in 2012, a then 19-year-old Mr Green was believed to be the youngest district councillor in the country when he was elected at Breckland Council.

Now he works as an area manager for an inventory company, is involved in the scouting movement, and lives with his partner and two young children, aged six-months and four.

“It’s hectic,” he admitted. “But I always like to tackle a challenge.”

Mr Green has a few ideas in the pipeline of what he would like to achieve during his time as mayor but said “getting through the pandemic” was a priority.

He added: “Everything is in a weird state at the moment but it’s making sure we can get through Covid and get back to some sort of normality.

“I’d also like to see the Memorial Hall opened up again and get back in touch with what the council has been working on - including things like the neighbourhood plan. I’d like to get that back on track.”

During Dereham Town Council’s annual meeting on July 28, councillor Phillip Duigan was also elected as deputy mayor.

Mr Green takes over from councillor Linda Monument, who currently remains on the town council.