A pub enthusiast has been elected to the role of a chairman of group which preserve the heritage of the ‘great British pub’.

Patrick Chaplin, of Norfolk Road, Maldon, says he is honoured to become chairman of the Pub History Society.

Dr Chaplin, a member of the Maldon and Dengie CAMRA and a keen darts player, was elected at the PHS Annual General Meeting, held at the Hoop and Grapes pub, London.

He said: “I am thrilled and honoured at becoming chairman of the PHS.

“I have been an active member of the Society from the time it was established in 2001."