District council elects youngest ever chairman

A district council has elected the youngest chairman in its history, it has been confirmed.

Wyre Forest District Council announced George Connolly, 28, as its new leader at Wednesday's annual general meeting

Connolly, who is Franche and Habberley North's councillor, comes to the role as a "familiar face", having previously been elected as Kidderminster's youngest ever mayor, aged 27, a spokesperson said.

His appointment came just hours after Worcester City Council elected its youngest ever mayor.

Connolly, who is also a county-level darts player, said: "I am extremely honoured to have been elected chairman of Wyre Forest District Council.

"It is a real privilege to represent both the council and the communities we serve, locally and beyond.

"Becoming the youngest chairman, following my time as the youngest mayor of Kidderminster, has been a bit of a whirlwind. It shows that age does not have to be a barrier to making a positive difference."

He will be joined in his role by Kenneth Henderson, who will serve as vice chairman.

The announcement follows the appointment on Tuesday of Tor Pingree, 26, as Worcester's mayor.

"I am very pleased to be the 18th female Mayor of Worcester and probably the youngest yet," she said, adding that it was an honour to be able to represent the city she grew up in.

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