Cllr Keith Stevens was elected as the new chair of the National Association of Local Councils (NALC).
Cllr Stevens spoke to NALC's National Assembly on his priorities, which include:
- Ensuring local (parish and town) councils are recognised as the first tier of local government.
- Transforming the organisation and services with a focus on being digital-first.
- Extending engagement with councils to grow membership.
Cllr Stevens, NALC chair, said: "I look forward to working with NALC's new leadership and committees, as well as our staff and county associations, to continue to promote and support local councils.
"Local councils make a change in our communities. And local councils, which, I am sure you would agree, have never been more vital."
Cllr Stevens takes over from Cllr Sue Baxter, Worcestershire Association of Local Councils, who was recently appointed vice-president and will continue to play an active role in NALC's work.