A COUNCIL has appointed a new legal advisor.

Helen Lynch will take over as the new head of legal and democratic services at Durham County Council in August.

The Hexham-born officer has worked in local government for almost 15 years having worked at Oxford and Hull city councils and, most recently, Coventry City Council, where she is currently acting head of legal and democratic services and monitoring officer.

She said: “I’m excited at the prospect of returning to my roots in the north east and working for such a well-respected council.

“Working in local government, I am aware of the challenges that await me, but such issues bring opportunities and I’m really looking forward to working with council colleagues and partners in County Durham.”

Terry Collins, Chief Executive of Durham County Council, said: “Helen brings with her significant experience from her time working at other local authorities around the country.

“She was appointed following an extremely competitive recruitment process and I am sure she will be a great asset to the council and to our management team.”