A COUNCIL chief is stepping down after five years in the role.

Andy Wright is leaving Braintree Council at the end of August to take retirement.

He has worked in local government for 37 years, joining Braintree Council in 2013 as a corporate director and becoming chief executive in 2017.

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Mr Wright said: "After 37 years in local government the time is right for me to retire and spend some more time with my family.

“I have been incredibly proud to have been the chief executive for the last five years and play my part in driving forward this ambitious and successful authority.

"I’m privileged to have worked with such a great team at Braintree District Council and would like to thank them for their support, dedication and hard work.”

Council leader Graham Butland said: “Under Andy’s leadership the council has developed an established reputation for innovative and ambitious work.

“We wish Andy well for the future and thank him for his continued support during the transition period to a new chief executive.”