The president of Essex Chambers of Commerce, Robert Leng, has been chosen as the first president of the newly formed East of England Chambers of Commerce (EECC), which has been set up to give a stronger voice on regional business issues. He will take up the post in December for two years.

Mr Leng, 59 from West Bergholt near Colchester, is a financial consultant and worked with Nationwide Building Society for 30 years before taking early retirement. He is also chairman of Colne housing society.

He said "I am delighted to be asked to take on this important strategic role at a time when the economic focus is very much on regional development and progress. The EECC is uniquely positioned to fulfil its traditional role as the trusted voice of business in the region and we are the natural partner for regional and local government in economic planning and development initiatives."

The seven accredited regional chambers - Bedford & Luton, Cambridge & District, Essex, Greater Peterborough, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk - set up EECC to make a significant, strategic impact on the regional economy. Independent and wholly owned by the business community, together these chambers represent over 10,000 business of all sizes and sectors employing a third of a million people in the East of England.

David Crozier, the Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, said, "We are delighted that our own president has been chosen to take on the regional role. He has an excellent understanding of the issues that affect businesses of all sizes and will undoubtedly ensure that the East of England Chambers have a prominent say in any regional, national and international consultations".

A new Director General has been appointed to the British Chambers of Commerce. David Frost had been Acting Director and has been involved with the organisation for over 25 years, including posts as Chief Executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber and East Mercia Chamber.