NEW Whitchurch Mayor Barry Jackman has promised to continue the “good work of the previous chairman” after taking over the position this week.

Councillor Jackman, who previously held the role in 2011, was handed the robes by former 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 also deputy Mayor this year, remained as the only other nomination.

Official robes were exchanged before Cllr Jackman made his first address in the role, thanking former Mayor Cllr Kean for his efforts and outlining his plans for the year ahead.

He said: “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.”

Cllr Kean, who will continue on as a councillor, also took the opportunity to round up his year as Mayor, calling it an “inspiring experience”.

He said: “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.”

The council also chose Cllr Andy Jordan to take up the role as deputy Mayor.

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