A COUNCIL leader has been appointed to one of the county’s top jobs.

Graham Butland, leader of Braintree Council, will join Essex County Council’s cabinet with responsibility for health.

Mr Butland is the county councillor for the Braintree Town ward.

The changes following Brentwood Hutton councillor Roger Hirst’s decision to step down.

Anne Brown, councillor for Constable ward, will take responsibility for the newly formed portfolio of “Corporate, Communities and Customers”.

Harlow South East councillor Eddie Johnson will take on additional responsibility for transport delivery, including passenger transport and park and ride services.