COUNCILLORS said farewell to their town clerk who has moved on to pastures new.

Julia Brown quit her post as clerk to Dene Valley Parish Council earlier this year to take up a post as secretary at Langley Moor Nursery.

The 36-year-old, from Langley Park, County Durham, was presented with a bouquet and a bottle of bubbly by her former colleagues in thanks for her services.

Mrs Brown had served the council since it was set up two years ago and said she had enjoyed being involved in the many exciting projects it had taken on.

She said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the council. It was very interesting and there was a lot to set up in the beginning. I would like to wish them all the best for the future.''

Chairman of the council Chris Foote Wood said: "We were very lucky to get Julia as our first parish clerk. She's been terrific and set us off on the right road, particularly with the setting up of the finances. We are very sorry to lose her, but wish her well in her new career.''

Geoff Wilde, former Sedgefield Borough Council secretary, has taken on the role as clerk to the parish council.