WREXHAM Council has revealed the identity of its new chief executive officer.

Council members voted to exclude members of the public and the press in the full council meeting on Wednesday evening amid speculation surrounding the appointment of a new CEO.

In the private section of the meeting members of the council appointed Ian Bancroft to the role, who will take up his new position in August.

For the last 14 years Mr Bancroft, from Ruabon, has worked in leadership roles at public organisations in places such as Manchester, Merseyside and North East Wales.

Since 2014 he has worked for Flintshire County Council as a chief officer leading on changes to a number of major strategic programmes.

Mr Bancroft, from Ruabon, said: “I am really excited about the new opportunities I have here at Wrexham.

"It’s my local council and while I know there will be challenges to come, I relish the prospect of working with everyone here for the benefit of everyone in Wrexham.

“As a committed public servant with more than 25 years’ experience, I know I’ve a lot to bring to the role and I’m ready to face the challenges the role might bring."

Cllr Mark Pritchard, leader of Wrexham Council, said: “We’re obviously very pleased with Ian’s appointment and look forward to working with him from later this year.

“I’d like to thank all those elected members who sat on the Appointments Panel for their help during the appointments process, along with interim chief executive Clare Field and our teams in HR and Legal.”