THERE were fresh faces at the helm as a new district council leader and chairman were elected this week.

Following his success in the May 2003 Bengeworth elections, Councillor Martin Jennings was elected leader of Wychavon District Council-taking over from stalwart, Cllr Malcolm Meikle.

Four-times Droitwich Spa mayor Cllr Mike Barratt was elected as the district council chairman at a council meeting held on Monday, May 19.

Cllr Jennings, the former district councillor for the Evesham South ward, will draw from his corporate experience and work with pressure groups on security, environmental and cultural issues in his new role.

He said: "After running many community involvement projects, I am a great believer in putting something back into the community from which we benefit so much.

"Having met so many residents, I realise that those on a fixed income feel frustration when they received an increased council tax bill. I will endeavour to ensure Wychavon's part of the bill will not soar above the rate of inflation."

Cllr Barratt who started his political career on Droitwich Town Council in 1983 is also keen to serve the Spa residents.

He said: "My family and I have lived in Wychavon for some years now and most of this time has seen me involved in local government.

"I intend to use this experience in my new role as chairman and will continue to serve residents to the best of my ability."