The head of the Bermuda Government’s London office is the new chairwoman of the UK Overseas Territories Association, it was revealed tonight.

Kimberley Durrant was elected to head the group and David Burt, the Premier, will become the president of its Political Council.

Ms Durrant said: “Our priorities for 2021/2022 will focus on delivering a strategy for enhanced EU engagement for the Overseas Territories, developing opportunities for trade in goods and services alongside the UK and the participation of Overseas Territories at COP 26 hosted by the UK in Glasgow.”

COP 26 is the UN’s 26th annual climate change conference.

Ms Durrant added: “We are grateful for the confidence of colleagues and look forward to cohesive work with Overseas Territories’ governments and the UK government.”

The news came as the UK Overseas Territories Association held its Annual General Meeting last Thursday.

It is the third time the island has headed the association.

A Government spokeswoman said the association’s role was to work on the combined priorities for the Overseas Territories.

Ms Durrant thanked the St Helena government and its UK representative over the country’s tenure as chairman and president of the Political Council.

She said: “Their tenure has been difficult to manage through the impact of Brexit and Covid.”

Mr Burt congratulated Ms Durrant on her appointment.

He said: “As a well-respected member of the UKOTA, I am confident that Kimberley will enjoy a successful term as she works to deliver their 2021/2022 strategy.”

Mr Burt added: “Bermuda is well-positioned to make a positive contribution to the work of the UKOTA and I look forward to my tenure as president of the Political Council.”