A veteran local authority boss of 25 years has been appointed as interim chief executive at a council.

Colin Carmichael, who was previously the chief executive at Canterbury City Council, has been chosen as the new interim CEO of Thanet District Council.

It comes after Madeline Homer stepped down as the boss of the local authority last month.

Last year Ms Homer faced calls to step down in the wake of a damning report from auditor Grant Thornton, which revealed a culture of bullying and intimidation at the authority, and spoke of “a serious breakdown in relations” between senior figures.

The council’s section 151 officer and director of finance, Chris Blundell, was acting deputy chief executive and covered the duties of the head of paid service following Ms Homer's departure.

But now, the appointment of Colin Carmichael as interim chief executive was approved by full council yesterday.

Mr Carmichael, previously the chief executive of Canterbury City Council for more than 25 years, will start in the role on Wednesday.

The district council said staff were informed on the decision in a briefing this morning.

He left his position at the city council in March this year, and said it was the "time to pass on the baton".

Council leader, Cllr Ash Ashbee said: "I’m delighted with this appointment to the role of interim chief executive.

"Colin brings with him a wealth of experience, leading a neighbouring authority for a number of years and extensive knowledge of the local area.

"The focus will be on supporting us through the implementation of the independent monitoring officer’s recommendations and leading on a restructure of our corporate management team.

"I am absolutely confident that Colin will drive the organisation forward through the next stages of our journey and help to build the foundations for the future of Thanet District Council.

"I look forward to working closely with Colin and ensuring we provide the best possible services we can to our residents."

At the full council meeting, Sameera Khan was also appointed as the council’s interim monitoring officer and head of legal services and will start in post on Monday.