Paul Hayward has been appointed the permanent new town clerk of Axminster.

Mr Hayward has been serving as the locum town clerk since the end of 2021 following the retirement of long-standing clerk Hilary Kirkcaldie.

At this week's annual parish meeting, the Mayor of Axminster, Cllr Jill Farrow, announced that following a rigorous recruitment process, Mr Hayward had been appointed to the position permanently.

Mr Hayward is also Independent East Devon Alliance member of East Devon District Council (EDDC), representing the Yarty ward, which includes some of the villages on the outskirts of Axminster.

He serves as deputy leader and portfolio holder for economy and assets at EDDC.

Mr Hayward is also currently the clerk for All Saints Parish Council and Chardstock Parish Council.