Newport City Council has appointed Will Godfrey as its new chief executive, following the news its current managing director, Tracey Lee, will be taking up the role of chief executive at Plymouth City Council.

Will Godfrey has been strategic director of corporate services for Bristol City Council since 2009. Prior to this, he served for six years as chief executive of East Hampshire District Council.

Leader of Newport City Council, Bob Bright, said: ‘The head of paid service is a vitally important role for both the council and the city. I look forward to welcoming Will to our great city, and working with him in the new year.'

Mr Godfrey will take up his new role in early January.