Hampshire County Council has elected a new chairman. 

Councillor Patricia Stallard, who represents the Winchester southern parishes electoral division, was elected to the position at the Annual meeting of the authority on Thursday May 18.

In her role as chairman, Cllr Stallard is the civic head of the county. She will represent the county council on Royal visits and ceremonial occasions in Hampshire as well as carry out other civic activities and duties. 

The chairman presides over county council meetings and ensures they are conducted in line with standing orders.

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Hampshire Chronicle: Councillor Keith Mans

Cllr Stallard was first elected to Hampshire County Council in 2012 to represent the Winchester southern parishes division. During that time, she has held positions on several county council committees, including chair of the health and adult social care select committee. 

She has also held cabinet responsibilities for health and public health, from 2015 to 2019 and children’s services from 2019 to 2021. 

Cllr Stallard was elected vice chairman of the county council in May last year. Her theme for the year is to promote Hampshire heritage, so that future generations can continue to enjoy the county as a great place to live, work and play.

Councillor Keith Mans, former county council leader and deputy leader, and local member for Brockenhurst, was elected vice chairman.