Councillor Terry Piccolo has been confirmed as the new Mayor of Thurrock. 

Mr Piccolo, Conservative councillor for Stanford-le-Hope West was announced as leader at tonight's annual council meeting. 

He replaces former mayor Barbara Rice, who announced earlier this year that she would be stepping down. 

The new mayor also announced popular charity, Giving for Thurrock, as his charity of the year.

Councillor Sue Shinnick has been appointed as deputy mayor. 

Speaking after his appointment, Mr Piccolo, said: "I would like to thank my wife in advance for her support in the coming year, it will be hectic at times, but I am sure in the main you will find it rewarding. 

"Once again, thank you, for bestowing this great honour on me and I will do my utmost to carry out the role with dignity and humility."

Mr Piccolo is a longstanding member of the community, and was made Citizen of the Borough in 2011. 

He has spent 20 years involved in community affairs and has often taken pride in fighting parking issues for residents.