A new chairman has been elected by New Forest District Council.

Councillor John Sleep, who represents the Totton Central Ward, was elected at the council's annual meeting on May 12.

Cllr Sleep has been a member of the council since May 2023.

He will chair council meetings at Appletree Court and represent the district at various civic engagements and local events.

After signing the declaration of acceptance in the chamber, Cllr Sleep thanked the outgoing chairman, Cllr David Hawkins, and said: "I am honoured to be given the opportunity to stand for you all in this year ahead.

"I am very much looking forward to representing our council and the communities we serve at a local level and beyond.

"With the support of my wife and consort, Denise, we will take great pride in undertaking this honour and we are very much looking forward to our year in office."

Cllr Sleep has chosen Solent Mind and Youth & Families Matter as his charities for his year in office.