Kent County Council has voted in long-serving county councillor Eric Hotson as its chairman.

Mr Hotson, who represents Maidstone Rural South, succeeds the out-going chairman Richard King.

Mr Hotson, who is championing young carers and business during his year at the helm, will be the ceremonial representative of the local authority for the next 12 months and will take charge of county council meetings.

He was elected to Kent County Council in 2001. A retired conveyancing executive, Mr Hotson spent 30 years with one of Kent’s leading firms of solicitors in Ashford.

He has also been leader of Maidstone Council and is a former mayor of the county town. He is a passionate sports fan and a keen gardener.

Mr Hotson is married to Janet and has three daughters and one grandson, who he hopes will wear the No9 shirt for England one day.

Mr Hotson said: “I see the role of chairman as to promote all that is good in the county, to support young people in their quest for employment, to support the many volunteer organisations and to help new and established businesses to grow.”

Accepting the chain of office at the annual meeting , he urged members to remember they were there to serve Kent’s 1.2 million residents, many of whom relied on the council’s vital services and support.

He also urged members to make the council chamber “a great debating chamber”.

Mr Hotson has nominated two charities for his chairmanship, Kent Air Ambulance and Young Carers, and will be raising funds for them over the year.

Outgoing chairman Richard King said: “I greatly enjoyed my time,
especially meeting so many of our loyal and dedicated staff in all parts of the county.

“It is a highly worthwhile and very rewarding job which has brought
me into contact with so many splendid people from all walks of life
in Kent.”

Peter Homewood, who represents Malling Rural North East, has been elected as vice-chairman.