A PARISH council has elected a new chairman following the resignation of its leader this week.

Councillor John Ferguson stepped down from his position on West Auckland Parish Council on Monday, citing other commitments.

He has been replaced with immediate effect by Councillor Hazel Chapman, with Councillor Colin Mairs taking over as vice-chairman.

A statement from West Auckland Parish Council said Coun Ferguson "will continue to be a valuable member of the council".

It went on: "A vote of thanks was minuted to the hard work and commitment shown by Coun Ferguson in his term of office."

Coun Ferguson had been chairman of the council since it was formed three years ago, and Coun Chapman had held the role of vice-chairman throughout that time.

Coun Charlton was elected unanimously to take over.