A NEW council leader has promised to serve the district to the best of her abilities amid "challenging times".

Maldon District Council appointed a new council leader on Tuesday (January 18), voting in Conservative councillor Penny Channer for the role.

Mrs Channer won the bid for leader at the full council meeting with two more votes than Independent district councillor Richard Siddall.

At the "extraordinary" meeting Channer thanked members for her appointment and expressed how she was "very privileged and honoured".

In a statement, Mrs Channer said: "I am humbled to have been given the privilege and honour to have been elected as the Leader of Maldon District Council.

"I will serve the District, all residents and businesses to the best of my abilities.

"We are living in challenging times. Since early 2020 Covid has influenced the lives of all in how we live and work.

"I am hoping 2022 may be a brighter year and going forward we need to be positive and proactive, recognising the challenges that remain and those ahead."

The Tory councillor for Mayland ward has recognised how the authority has changed its ways of working amid these "challenging times", and how she will play a role in improving the delivery of its services.

"Through continued working, in partnership with our communities, businesses, health services, volunteers and other bodies, the council will keep delivering valued services for all in our much-loved district," Mrs Channer added.

"Promotion of the economy, environment, efficient and effective services are areas of great importance to us all.

"The council has had to be innovative and adopt new ways of working during the challenging times.

"I intend to ensure that we continue seeking improvement to the delivery of accessible, quality, cost effective and valued services for all.

Maldon Constituency Conservative Association has congratulated Mrs Channer on her appointment.

Mr Siddall had been appointed leader designate after former leader and fellow Independent councillor Wendy Stamp stepped down in November.

Conservative councillor Maddie Thompson has also been elected as deputy leader to replace Stephen Nunn, who stepped down from his role alongside Mrs Stamp.