AN apprentice accountant has made history – after becoming what is believed to be the youngest-ever chairman of a local authority.

Luke Ives, who is just 22, has taken the reins at Ryedale District Council in North Yorkshire three years after being voted in as a 19-year-old.

And the theme he has chosen for his time in office is to be the year of youth.

A Tory councillor who represents the Norton West ward, his consort for the next year will be his mum Louise.

He is due to complete a four-year advanced apprenticeship in accountancy in August and he described his election to the office as an honour and a privilege.

He added: “I hope my appointment shows that there is a place for everyone in local democracy.

“I believe that with subtle changes I can bring a fresh and modern approach to the office, whilst being sympathetic to traditional values and customs.”

Cllr Ives has lived in Norton since birth and is a former pupil of Norton College.

His role as chairman will be to lead meetings of the full council, host a number of civic events, represent the authority at ceremonial occasions and attend a wide range of events and presentations.

His chosen charity for the year is Ryedale Special Families, which supports families of children with disabilities and special needs.