The Kingston Society has elected a new chairman – the 13th in its 53-year-history.

IT consultant Matthew Rees, 58, who has lived in Kingston since 1987, was voted in unanimously at the society’s annual general meeting on Wednesday, January 21.

He succeeds Jennifer Butterworth, who is stepping down after eight years, and who was commended by members for her “forceful contribution” to the society’s activities, in particular for her work co-ordinating the borough’s successful Heritage Open Days programme.

Mr Rees, who also writes about art, culture and architecture in his regular blog Ham Life, said he plans to foster the society’s engagement with its members, councillors and other societies, and expand its activities to include more visits and social events.

For more information visit kingstonuponthamessociety.co.uk.