A council has announced its new chairman for the forthcoming year.

Cllr Aga Dychton, who represents the Central ward for Watford Borough Council, accepted the role yesterday at an annual council meeting, which was held online due to Covid-19 restrictions.

She is the first polish-born chairman at the council - and took over the role from Cllr Asif Khan today.

Cllr Dychton moved to Watford in 2008 with her family and quickly made it her home, having attended Warsaw University.

She also runs the Watford Polish School, which she set up in 2010.

Watford Women’s Centre and Electric Umbrella have been selected as her two chosen charities that she will fundraise for throughout the year.

Cllr Dychton said: “It is a privilege to have been elected as Chairman of Watford Borough Council. I am delighted to wear the chains knowing my fellow Councillors put their trust in me. I am proud to represent the town of Watford, which has shown such a great deal of goodwill and community spirit during the coronavirus pandemic.

"I am delighted to become the first-ever Polish-born Chairman of Watford Borough Council. The Eastern European community play a big part in our town and I am proud to able to represent them. ”

Deputy Mayor, Karen Collett, said “Since Aga came to Watford in 2008, she has been making a difference in her community, such as the Watford Polish School she set up. In her role as Councillor, she has worked on the need for a more gender balance in politics and the importance of inclusion and equality in Watford.

"As a colleague and friend Aga is passionate, positive and a joy to work with. Her work at Watford General Hospital supporting staff, patients and relatives during this pandemic has given us all further admiration.”

The new Vice Chairman was also announced last night, with Leggatts Ward councillor Bilqees Mauthoor taking on the role.

Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “I’m delighted that Cllr Aga Dychton has been appointed as our Chairman and Cllr Bilqees Mauthoor as our Vice Chairman. Watford is a diverse town with lots of different groups living side by side so I am really pleased that we now have our first ever Polish-born Chairman.

"They will both make great ambassadors for the town and I look forward to working with them.”