A NEWLY elected councillor who has lived in Witham for more than 30 years but worked in London said he wants to give something back to the community.

John Robert Pullen, aged 76, won an election in the Witham South constituency by 31 votes.

He moved to Witham aged 30 in 1970 and became a chartered engineer, though said he rarely spent time in community affairs because of his work.

Now retired, Mr Pullen said he wants to give something back to the community.

He said:"It's going to be a bit of a learning curve.

"I have been a school governor for the Maltings Academy in Witham before, which I have done for seven years, but this is completely different.

Mr Pullen lives with his wife in Witham, with three grown up children and three grandchildren.

He said his family was surprised when he told them he was standing for election.

He said: "My family thought I was a bit nuts, but they had the same reaction when I told them I was becoming a school governor.

"But I can't wait to get involved and I can't wait to represent the people of Witham."

An election for the Witham South ward saw the conservative candidate Mr Pullen beat the labour candidate Anthony Scott Bennet by 31 votes.

Mrs Money, a councillor who serves on the same ward, said: "I don't know too much about John but I know he'll be an asset with a background in engineering combined with his knowledge of the Witham area."

Conservative councillor Michael Lager said: "We are delighted as John has lots of experience within the community and knows the Witham area very well.

"I know John is incredibly hardworking and committed, he will be an asset to the council and we are looking forward to him joining us."