Councillor Marrilyn Smart OBE has been elected as the new chairman of Forest of Dean District Council with Councillor James Bevan as her deputy.

Both councillors were voted into their new positions at the annual meeting.

Councillor Smart said: "I am delighted to have been elected as chairman of the Forest of Dean District Council and I regard it as a privilege and huge honour. As we move forward to the final year of this council I hope that we can all work together amicably for the benefit of the residents of the Forest of Dean."

Vice chairman Councillor James Bevan added: "I'm proud and honoured to hold the position of Vice Chairman and I look forward to carrying out lots of good work in the community over the forthcoming year."