THE new chairman of North Herts District Council (NHDC) has been revealed with the post filled by a labour councillor for the first time in 14 years.

Cllr Joan Kirby took over from cllr Michael Weeks and she will retain the role for 12 months starting from last Thursday’s appointment.

She said: “I have been a councillor for many years and love representing the views of residents, so I am honoured and privileged to be taking on the role of chairman.

“I would like to thank Cllr Weeks for his hard work and support and offer my congratulations for raising �3,190 for his charity during his civic year in office.

NHDC’s new chairman has nominated two charities to support during her tenure.

Cllr Kirby said: “I have chosen to support Gigs And Wigs for Kids as my main charity. I recently met the director of the charity and became inspired by the good work she does in helping children to regain their confidence after serious illness has left them with hair loss.

“Road Victims Trust is my second choice of charity. It is a new charity whose offices have just been set up in Hitchin. They have recently helped families in Letchworth and Royston and provide support for the whole of North Herts.”

Cllr Jane Gray succeeded Cllr Kirby in her role as vice-chairman.