HAMP councillor Leigh Redman has been elected Mayor of Bridgwater - for a second time.

Cllr Redman, who was chosen via a Bridgwater Town Council meeting on Zoom last night (Thursday) takes over from Cllr Tony Heywood, whose year in office was extended by six months due to the Covid lockdown.

Cllr Liz Leavy, who also represents Hamp, was elected Deputy Mayor.

At the meeting, Cllr Redman said: "Thank you for the privilege of being your Mayor again.

"I want to take a moment to thank Cllr Heywood, Tony thank you for your efforts in these unprecedented times, this pandemic has been horrible for everyone in Bridgwater.

"I know Tony was keen to do so much more. He planned a memory walk for Dementia charities. I have given my undertaking to ensure we complete this as soon as it is safe to do so."

"Tony, I want to thank you on behalf of the town council for your time as our Mayor, you may not have been able to do everything you had wanted, but in those events you have been able to do, you have made an impact.

"Tony you have been an amazing chairman of council and Bridgwater town mayor."

Cllr Redman has pledged to help raise money to support local Covid groups.

It is hoped to stage a more formal Mayor making event next year.

Cllr Redman says he will endeavour to support the town and businesses and his first event will be to judge the Christmas windows in the local shops. He is asking people to support local shops.

Cllr Leavy said: "Let's look forward to a better future.

"We have already seen how the community of Bridgwater has stepped up. The amazing work our volunteers have done and continue to do is wonderful.

"Bridgwater town council has done its part, the walk-through test centre is working well at the town hall and helping reduce the need to travel for testing.

"Now is a time for unity. I am so proud of Bridgwater and the people in every part of our community.

"Please volunteer if you can. Please stay safe and follow the safety guidance, so that we can all play a part in ending Corona virus."