Martyn Plant was elected as the new Mayor of Midsomer Norton at the Annual Town Council meeting on Monday, May 13.

Cllr Gordon Mackay, the Mayor for the past year, thanked Cllr Plant for his support as deputy before proposing him as successor before he was duly elected.

Martyn has been on the Town Council for several years sitting as chair of the staffing and finance committees for the year 23/24 and has served on the Community Trust since its inception in 2013.

The Trust, a registered charity, was set up by the town council to operate key assets in the town such as the Somer Centre, town hall and Unit 14 for the benefit of the community. The Trust also organises the Christmas and summer fairs, in addition to this years’ annual music and arts festival to be held on June 1 at the Town Park.

Upon his election to Mayor, Cllr Plant commented: “It is a great honour to be Mayor of Midsomer Norton. I have lived and worked in the town for many years now, and it has been a real pleasure meeting and getting involved with groups and organisations, and with residents who care so much for the town.

“I am looking forward to helping support events, businesses and organisations in the year ahead, and representing and promoting the great town of Midsomer Norton. I want to thank Cllr MacKay for his incredible efforts over the past year, promoting and supporting businesses and community groups, and promoting Midsomer Norton across the local area.”

Cllr Mackay, stepping down, said: “I’m delighted to see Martyn elected, he’s already given so much to the community through his work on the town council and the Community Trust.  He’s been of great support as deputy this past year and he will a great Mayor and ambassador for the council and the whole town.”

“It’s been an honour to serve as Mayor this past year,” continued Cllr Mackay.  “We have this most wonderful community in Midsomer Norton, it’s amazing to be part of it. I feel I’ve given it my very best and tried to inject a little fun into the role too with my Mayoral T-shirts, hat and (Dry)robe. I’m looking forward to supporting Martyn during his term, and having a few weekends off.“

The Mayor has a Facebook page. To keep updated about Martyn’s Mayoral term, visit: facebook.com/MayorOfMidsomerNorton