Caerphilly council will have their first female chief executive in the New Year.

Christina Harrhy was appointed by the full council on December 5 after the current boss Chris Burns confirmed he was stepping down at the end of the year. She will be in the post for six months.

Christina has been with the council for over two years and has previously worked at a senior level within Torfaen and Carmarthenshire councils.

She said: “I am delighted and honoured to be offered the opportunity to take charge at what I believe to be one of the leading local authorities in Wales,” said Christina. “I’ve seen the excellent services that our dedicated workforce provides and I want to ensure we build on this in the future.”

Leader of the council, Councillor Dave Poole said, “We look forward to Christina taking over this key position in the New Year and building on the positive legacy that has been left by Chris Burns.