Councillor Barbara Rice has officially been elected as the new mayor of Thurrock. 

The long-standing councillor was unveiled as the new mayor at an annual council meeting tonight.

The councillor, who represents the Chadwell St Mary ward, replaces outgoing mayor Tunde Ojetola. 

Mrs Rice will serve as mayor throughout the 2018/19 year. 

During tonight's meeting, she gave a lengthy speech showing her passion for the area, and telling her fellow councillors, and members of the public, how she has lived for 63 years in Thurrock after her family moved to Belhus council home from London. 

Councillor Terry Piccolo was elected as deputy mayor.