THE chosen charities of Braintree Council's newly elected chairman have been revealed.

Councillor Frankie Ricci has officially taken over from councillor Lynne Walters for this civic year and aims to champion rural business and new start ups during his term.

His vice chairman will be councillor Stephen Kirby, who represents the Halstead St Andrews ward.

He said: “During a call to charities earlier in the year asking for consideration for funding we were inundated with many requests.

"After a shortlist was drawn up I visited each one to see them personally and I am delighted to announce that Braintree, Halsted and Witham Home Start and Essex Search and Rescue were my final choice.

“Braintree, Halsted and Witham home start offer brilliant support for local families in their own homes by providing friendship, emotional support and practical help, often to those who have just moved to the district.

“Essex SAR has been involved in two high profile searches here in the district over the last year and assist Essex Police in searching for vulnerable missing people such as young children or those with dementia."

“I will also be championing the Braintree Live Well programme. As a lover of all types of sport and fitness, I will be working with local groups as an ambassador for the sport for all agenda and will be looking to get involved.

"Don’t be surprised to see my in either my wellies and waxed jacket or my shorts and Lycra, although hopefully not at the same time."

The chairman acts in an ambassadorial role to promote Braintree Council and represents it at community events and at civic and ceremonial functions.