A Penkridge community leader and ex-serviceman has been elected to chair South Staffordshire District Council for the next year.

Victor Kelly, who has served as vice chair for the previous year, took on the chain of office at Tuesday's full council meeting (5 May).

He was nominated for the honour by Cllr David Williams.

He told the meeting that Cllr Kelly joined the Army Cadets at the age of 13, before serving his country in the Army's Artillery Regiment.

Cllr Williams added: "He continued his service, transferring to the Royal Transport Corps and leaving in 1993. After leaving the Armed Forces, he travelled and resided in Australia and Tenerife for a time, before settling down with his wife, and they had two daughters together, who have both gone to university and now have jobs of their own.

"He has been a referee for many years at many levels, even carrying out these duties at the golden palace of Molineux.

"He's also the chairman of the SPCA (Staffordshire Parish Councils Association) and vice chairman on the NALC (National Association of Local Councils) finance scrutiny committee.

"He settled in Penkridge and continues to serve his community by being part of the parish council for over 15 years, as well as being chairman of that parish for two of those years.

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"He's well-known in the parish for his helpful attitude and hard work, helping erect marquees and servicing and fitting benches in his own time.

"With all this going on, he still pays football twice a week and will be celebrating his 60th birthday in June.

"He is my best friend and it is my honour to know and work with him – that's why I know he will serve this council in the best manner possible as chair."

Councillor Kelly said: "Thank you members for the honour of this privilege. I will do my best to make this district council the best in Staffordshire and support you in any way I can.

"My charity this year will be Compton Care. That is one of the ones close to my heart because my parents were cared for by Compton.

"I am looking to do a charity football match – probably at the Molineux if we can get it – and do a parachute jump as well as doing some bingo. If there are any members up for doing that, please come forward."