A new mayor and deputy mayor of Cheltenham were elected at Cheltenham Borough Council's annual council meeting yesterday (May 12).

Outgoing mayor, Cllr Paul Baker, said: "I can't believe it's my last meeting as chair and mayor. The last year has gone quickly."

Before the election of the new mayor, Cllr Baker reflected on some of his last duties, including presenting a long service award to an employee who has worked for the council for 50 years, and meeting visitors from twin towns, Annecy and Gottingen, at the recent Cheltenham Jazz Festival.

Cllr Victoria Atherstone proposed outgoing deputy mayor Cllr Dr David Willingham (Liberal Democrats, St Peter's) as mayor and council chair for the coming year, seconded by Cllr Angie Boyes.

Cllr Baker presented Cllr Willingham with the chain of office and Cllr Willingham moved to the chair's seat, to chair the remainder of the meeting and for election of the deputy mayor.

Cllr Rowena Hay proposed Cllr Martin Horwood (Liberal Democrats, Leckhampton) as deputy mayor and council vice-chair, seconded by Cllr Ashleigh Davies.

Cllr Willingham thanked Cllr Baker for his hard work over the last year.

He said: "He will be a hard act to follow, but I'll do my best!"

The mayor chairs the council and represents the borough at many local business and charity events throughout the year. This year, the new mayor has decided to focus his fundraising efforts towards three charities: The Rock, Cheltenham Sea Cadets and Men in Sheds.

Cllr Dr David Willingham, said: "My three charities are, Men in sheds, Sea Cadets and The Rock. They all have sites in St Peter's ward, but as organisations they serve the wider community of Cheltenham and beyond."