The leader of Braintree Council is stepping down after five years at the top.
John Gyford, 61, who is councillor for Witham North, became leader of the council in 1995 when Labour took control but will officially step down at Monday's full council meeting.
Mr Gyford, a retired university lecturer, is giving up his position as leader of the Labour group after 17 years but as it is the largest party he will continue as a councillor despite stepping down as council leader.
His successor Ian Pointon, also a Labour councillor for Witham North, will take over at Monday's meeting.
Mr Gyford said: "He has been lead member for resources and I think he is well respected and well liked by people of all parties so I think he is an ideal choice as successor."
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