RYEDALE District Council has appointed a new chief executive in a new arrangement with North Yorkshire County Council designed to improve services and make savings.

Ryedale District councillors agreed to the appointment of Stacey Burlet to the new position at their full council meeting.

He new role combines that of chief executive of Ryedale District Council with assistant chief executive of North Yorkshire County Council.

Ms Burlet has also been appointed to the roles of Returning Officer and Electoral Register Officer for the council.

Her appointment is part of a much wider link-up between the two councils.

It mirrors arrangements elsewhere in North Yorkshire where it has helped to deliver long-term savings.

Ms Burlet said: “I’m excited to join a great council which has the residents at its heart and which serves such a special place.

“I am committed to our aspirations for economic growth to create more opportunities for local people and to ensure this is the best place to live, work, do business and visit.

“Working with North Yorkshire County Council will give Ryedale District Council greater opportunities to deliver value for money and improve what we do and how we do it for our joint customers.”