A VETERAN councillor has earned the chance to lead Maldon District Council through difficult times.

John Archer was appointed as the new council leader on Thursday night, replacing Penny Channer, who stepped down after three years.

Mr Archer, Conservative councillor for Purleigh, accepted the position at a meeting of the council, after being chosen by his peers.

Speaking afterwards, he said: “I’m delighted that the group chose me to be the new leader. There’s quite a few things I would like to do and I’ll be setting those up in the future.

“There are big challenges for everybody at the present time, with interest rates as low as they are and the council having no money."

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S STANDARD