WYRE Forest District Council has elected a new Chairman.

Conservative councillor Stephen Clee has taken up the position - the one role he had yet to fulfil on the council - replacing Conservative Gordon Yarranton.

Mr Clee, who has sat on every committee since entering politics in 1992, said he was “honoured” and “excited” about taking on the role.

The ward member for Bewdley and Arley added: “I am delighted to be elected chairman of the council.

“During council meetings I hope to be firm but fair and inclusive as well, recognising the differences of opinion. I have chaired many committees in the past but this is going to be my biggest challenge to date. “ It was a letter with “passionate views” to a local paper that started off Mr Clee’s political career and saw him become leader of the opposition group in 2002 and of the council in 2004.

He was also a cabinet member for planning, regeneration and prosperity and is looking to promote the district further as chairman, focusing on local businesses employing local people.

“I have lived in the district all my life and I love this part of Worcestershire,” Mr Clee said, adding there were some “great opportunities” for the district.

“Wyre Forest is attracting big investment and I am proud that as a council we’ve acted as a catalyst for this,” Mr Clee explained.

“We are attracting visitors and businesses to invest in the district. For example, we’ve got two hotel chains looking to locate here. I am interested in visiting local businesses and talking to them about working in Wyre Forest. ”

He added he was looking to raise awareness of council services and promoting the differences between the various authorities.

As well as a year in the chair, it will also be a year in the saddle for Mr Clee, as he aims to get cycling around the district, following a recent ride from Stourport to Kidderminster and Wolverley.

“I would like to become healthier and encourage more people to do so too,” he said.

Businesses interested in a visit from Mr Clee should email karen.walsh@wyreforestdc.gov.uk or call 01562 732708.