THE new mayor of Whitchurch has promised to continue the good work of the previous chairman.

Councillor Barry Jackman, who previously held the role of mayor in 2011, was handed the robes by outgoing mayor Cllr Mike Kean on Monday night following a vote by members of the newly-formed council.

Despite being asked to continue the role Cllr Kean decided not to stand again, meaning Cllr Jackman, who was deputy mayor this year, remained as the only other nomination.

Cllr Jackman accepted before being voted in unanimously by all 10 members of the council.

Cllr Jackman thanked Cllr Kean for his efforts and outlined his plans for the year ahead, saying: “I would like to pay tribute to Mike for all of his work. He came in at a very difficult time but he has been a real asset to the council and has got staff and councillors working together.

“I will have a lot to do to keep up the standards and there will be a lot of exciting things happening in the town this year particularly the World Wide Whitchurch Weekend. I trust you will all play a part in making that a success.”

Cllr Kean said: “I cannot let this moment pass without saying what an honour and privilege it has been to be your chairman and mayor for the past year – it has been an inspiring experience.

“Looking back over the past year, the town council got back up to full strength with new councillors and in my view regained its stability and desire to run its ‘business’ in a more disciplined and proactive way.

“In my role as mayor, along with Jan your mayoress, we attended over 70 events and engagements and this gave us the opportunity to meet many people and the many volunteers who give up their own time to help make a difference to our community. You really do make a difference.”

Cllr Jackman will be supported in the role by his wife, Sandra Jackman, who was presented with her mayoral chain by outgoing mayoress Jan Kean.

The council nominated Cllr Andy Jordan to take up the role of deputy mayor, which he accepted, before being voted in to the position unanimously.

Cllr Jackman will chair his first full council meeting on Monday, June 1.