An interim chief executive has been appointed by Suffolk County Council while the authority looks for a permanent replacement for previous incumbent Andrea Hill.

Lucy Robinson, who has been Director of Economy, Skills and Environment at the county since 2002 and has stood in as chief executive since early May, has taken up the reins at the authority.

She will hold the position for an initial period of six months on a salary of �150,000 pro rata, beginning on August 1.

Suffolk's staff appointments committee made the decision after a day of interviews at Ipswich Town Football Club.

Key objectives for Ms Robinson will include managing the budget setting process, to ensure the required savings of �50 million are made over the next two years.

Cllr Mark Bee, leader of Suffolk County Council said: 'She offers not only a wealth of experience but also the personal skills and drive to begin building foundations for the future.

'Over the coming years we are faced with a number of challenges, not least the need to save �50m over the next two years.'

Ms Robinson said: 'I am delighted to be offered this role and look forward to working with Mark, Cabinet and councillors to meet their objectives.'

Ms Robinson will take up the role from August 1.