Ludlow Town Council is back on an “even keel” after the appointment of one of the UK’s most senior clerks, councillors said today.

Richard Walden, who was the president of the National Association for Local Council Clerks, will work for three days a week at Ludlow Town Council.

He is helping the authority get back on track following months of chaos.

Today Ludlow mayor Councillor Marie Glaze said Mr Walden’s appointment as a locum town clerk was approved at an emergency meeting of officials.

He had been approached by former mayor Councillor Graeme Kidd, who arranged for him to come to Ludlow.

Councillor Glaze said: “He’s here until further notice. He’s working on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. He’s a very nice man, he’s helping people like the councillors and the staff. The council is all on an even keel now. ”

Mr Walden was drafted in following an incident involving Ludlow town clerk Paul Russell and Councillor Tony Pound three weeks ago. Councillor Pound required hospital treatment but police decided not to prosecute anyone involved.

Councillor Glaze added that the district council was also helping.

She said: “The Paul Russell incident is all being sorted out. The town council isn’t involved in that now, it’s in the hands of the district council.”