BISHOP'S Stortford councillor Ralph Gilbert has been elected as the new chairman of East Herts District Council.

The town and district councillor was voted in at East Herts District Council's annual meeting last Wednesday, taking over from fellow Bishop's Stortford councillor Bob Parker, who steps down after two years.

Mr Gilbert , who was elected as a councillor in 1987, now represents the town's Meads ward but before last May, had held the Chantry seat for 12 years.

In preparation for becoming the chairman, Mr Gilbert has worked closely with Mr Parker who is now vice-chairman.

Mr Gilbert, who will be assisted in his civic duties by his wife Audrey, said: 'I consider this a great honour and I'm prepared to make myself available as much as I can to get to know better the people in east Herts and to listen to their views.'

Commenting on stepping down from the helm, Mr Parker said: 'I'm very proud to have been East Herts District Council's chairman.

'I hope I will be remembered for bringing the same dignity and enthusiasm to the office as my predecessors.'