A NEW chairman has been appointed to make sure residents in north Essex get the mental health services they deserve.

Chris Paveley will replace the retiring Mary St Aubyn as chairman of the North Essex Partnership.

Mr Paveley, chairman of NHS North East Essex until earlier this year, will take over in January for three years and will be paid £44,000 a year.

Mrs St Aubyn, chairman for 11 years, steps down at the end of November. Deputy chairman Ray Cox will cover the gap in December.

Mr Paveley said: “Mental illness is surrounded by stigma and that makes the work done here even more remarkable. I am very proud - and a little humbled - to be part of this team.”