Acting chief executive Helen Pluck has been appointed to the job on a permanent basis at Ipswich Borough Council.

Her appointment was confirmed at Wednesday's meeting of the authority. She takes over from Russell Williams who left at the end of January after just over 13 years in the job.

Previously Mrs Pluck was deputy chief executive having joined the borough as chief operating officer in 2012.

She said: “I am thrilled to be appointed to the permanent Chief Executive role; it is an honour and a privilege to lead the Council at this time.

"Ipswich is a wonderful town, with huge potential, and I’m looking forward to working with colleagues, partners, councillors, and our community to create new opportunities and build upon the exciting projects already taking place.

"Like all local authorities, Ipswich Borough Council is facing challenging times, but I’m confident I will be able to steer us through and support Ipswich to thrive.”

Council leader David Ellesmere said: “I am delighted that Helen has been appointed as our new Chief Executive. Helen’s experience and knowledge positions her perfectly to take the reins.

"Having worked with Helen since she joined us in 2012, I know that she has the vision to lead the Council and the expertise to create opportunities for businesses, residents and partners, opportunities which will see Ipswich flourish."

Opposition leader Ian Fisher added: “I am delighted that Helen will be moving into the CEO role.

"This is a challenging time to be leading a local authority, but Helen has demonstrated her ability and commitment to meet those challenges head on, as well as ‘hit the ground’ running, which is exactly what’s needed at this time.”

These are changing times at the borough - Mr Ellesmere has also announced that he will be standing down as leader after May's local elections.