Hertfordshire County Council has elected a new chairman, with changes to the cabinet also announced.

Cllr Terry Douris, who represents Bridgewater ward in Dacorum, became the 39th chairman of the council when elected on May 23.

He has lived in Herts since he was five years old, and first became a county councillor in 2009. Until recently, he held the executive portfolio for education, libraries and lifelong learning.

Cllr Douris has also previously been Armed Forces Champion, and chairman of the Hertfordshire Armed Forces Covenant Board.

As chairman, he will run meetings of the county council, and represent the body at a plethora of events across Hertfordshire.

Speaking about his appointment, Cllr Douris said: “To be elected to the position of chairman by so many county council colleagues is an honour and I hope to use my time in office to promote our wonderful county, highlighting both the exceptional people and organisations who make Hertfordshire the best county in the country.

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“I would like to also thank outgoing chairman, Cllr Annie Brewster, for her tireless work. She’s a tough act to follow but I’m sure she’ll be on hand to help me as I find my feet in this new and exciting role.”

Meanwhile, Cllr Richard Roberts, the leader of the county council, has announced changes to his cabinet that took effect on May 22.

Cllr Fiona Thomson becomes deputy leader alongside her role as executive member for children, young people and families.

And as Cllr Douris steps up to his role as chairman, he is replaced as executive member for education, libraries and lifelong learning by Cllr Caroline Clapper.

The full cabinet is now as follows:

  • Leader of the council - Cllr Richard Roberts
  • Deputy leader of the council - Cllr Fiona Thomson
  • Executive member for adult care, health & wellbeing - Cllr Tony Kingsbury
  • Executive member for children, young people & families - Cllr Fiona Thomson
  • Executive member for education, libraries & lifelong learning - Cllr Caroline Clapper
  • Executive member for growth, infrastructure & planning - Cllr Stephen Boulton
  • Executive member for highways & transport - Cllr Phil Bibby
  • Executive member for public health & community safety - Cllr Morris Bright
  • Executive member for resources & performance - Cllr Bob Deering
  • Executive member for the environment - Cllr Eric Buckmaster

After the changes, Cllr Roberts said: "I know that if we continue to harness the resilience and strength of Hertfordshire’s people, places and businesses, working closely with our partners, together we can create a more inclusive and productive county, where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to succeed."