THE youngest mayor in the country stepped down from his position to pass over the role to someone else.

District and town councillor Janet Hedges was elected by Epping town council to take over from 25-year-old Ben Murphy, who's term in office has come to an end.

In his parting speech Cllr Murphy said he had experienced more than most people would in a lifetime during the last two years.

He added: "It has been with immense pride that I have spent the last year serving as mayor to this council and our beautiful town.

"The people I have met and the things I have seen and experienced over the last two years, most people will never have the opportunity to do. And as a young man - I have only just turned 25, this has given me an incredible grounding in life."

But he admitted that mistakes had been made and said: "As a passionate and fiery young man, sometimes my heart has acted before my head.

"But I believe the people of Epping's voice continues to be reflected in this chamber. Everyone should be proud of what we have achieved here."

Cllr Murphy made reference to the "many challenges" he had faced during his term in office.

Some of those challenges which have taken place in Epping throughout the last year include; an application for 351 new homes to be built on land at St Margaret's hospital;

high street problems which put the future of Epping market at risk;

responding to the consultation for Government plans to create two new gypsy sites in Epping;

plans to develop the site at St John's school;

and members of the public marching in protest against the council’s decision not to re-name Stonards Hill play park after fallen Royal Marine Georgie Sparks.

Cllr Murphy has now been chosen to take on a new role of 'democracy champion' for Epping, and promised to communicate regularly with local people.

Councillor Olive Dunseath was elected as Deputy Mayor, taking over the role from Cllr Hedges.

Accepting her new position as mayor Cllr Hedges said: "I'm incredibly proud to become the Mayor of Epping and I would like to thank members for their confidence and ask for their support in the coming year."

She chose to support St John's church extension fund and Essex Area Ambulance for the town mayor charity.

Past town mayor's attended the meeting in Epping Hall on St John's Road, where key members for various committees were also chosen.