A former journalist was last night sworn in as the new chairman of Watford Borough Council.

Councillor Keith Crout was presented with a ceremonial robe and chain, as well as the mace of the borough, before taking up his role for the coming municipal year.

The Town Hall ceremony, attended by councillors past and present, saw Councillor Jan Brown formally stand down after her year as chairman.

She also presented cheques of £4,000 to her two charities, the toy libraries at Westfield Children's Centre and at Berry Grove Children's Centre.

After making the declaration of office and swearing the oath of allegiance, Councillor Crout said he took the position with a mixture of “trepidation and excitement”.

He said: “I very much appreciate the trust you have placed in me and I will will very much fulfil the role to the best of my abilities.”

Councillor Crout has chosen the Alzheimer's Society and The Peace Hospice as his two charities of the year.

He will oversee meetings of the full council in the coming twelve months, as well as represent the borough in a number of formal events.