David Shopland has been installed as chairman of North Somerset Council, promising ‘impartiality and fairness’.
The authority began its new term at Weston Town Hall on May 14 after the local elections brought big changes to North Somerset's political landscape.
With vice-chairman for the past year, Reyna Knight, losing her seat and unable to fill the post of chairman, Cllr Shopland - long-serving representative of Clevedon East - was chosen to fill the post.
The Independent will chair council meetings for the next 12 months in addition to representing the authority in the community.
He said: "Thank you for the honour you have given me. I must warn you I could make mistakes, but I will always try to be impartial and fair."
New deputy leader Mike Bell added: "It's a really important job. It's not just about being a representative of the council in the community, but also the important job of ensuring our business is conducted effectively and professionally."
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