The town's new mayor will follow in his late father's footsteps.

Epping Town councillor Nigel Avey has been elected as town mayor, with cllr Grahame Scurton his deputy.

Before Cllr Avey took the chain, his dad Ken was the first and only person to receive the honour twice in the town's history.

Outgoing Epping Town Mayor Tony Church reflected on his year in office at the ceremony, describing his term as an "immense honour and privilege".

After handing over the chain of office to Mayor Avey, Mr Church highlighted some of the 240-plus engagements he attended during his civic year including the 100th anniversary of Epping WI, the 80th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Epping, the 40th anniversary of Epping Probus Club and the 100th birthday celebrations of former Epping Town Mayor Denys Favre.

Councillor Church thanked councillors and town council staff for their support during the past year.

A cheque for £903.67 was then presented to the Epping and District Royal British Legion.

The money was raised by Mr Church, who chose the branch during his year in office.