AN east Durham councillor made history when he took over at the helm of the District of Easington authority.

Councillor Jeffrey Gray is the first member of the council to be selected as chairman during his initial term in office.

Coun Gray, who represent the Blackhalls ward, joined the council just three years ago and since that time has served on a variety of committees.

Ouside of his council duties Coun Gray sits on several police committees and is president of Hesleden Community Centre, where as chairman he helped re-open the centre by raising over £50,000.

The new chairman has adopted Macmillan Cancer research as his chosen charity during his year as civic head.

He has already lined up scores of sponsored activities and events to help bring as much money as possible for the charity.

Coun Gray said: "I am very much looking forward to my year in office, it looks like it's going to be a busy time. I am hoping that the residents of the district will help me raise thousands of pounds for this very worthwhile charity over the next few months."

The chairman took over the office from Councillor Audrey Laing who raised a record breaking £15,000 for the Chin Up charity during her year in the top post.