Councllors vote on who will be the town’s new mayor
»»COUNCILLOR Neal Davey has been elected as the mayor of Tiverton for the forthcoming year.
The decision was made on March 25, with Cllr Davey receiving a majority of the votes from his fellow councillors. It is a return to the role for him as he was also mayor in 2011.
Cllr Tim Bridger nominated him for this year's term of office. He said: “I've been involved in this council for probably 12 years, on and off, and I think Cllr Davey has been a constant feature all that time.
“Perhaps we have not always agreed, but that has never stopped him from being a source of great information, civil when many councillors may not have been, and someone whom I have a lot of respect and time for in how he conducts his business.
“He's an excellent chair of the finance committee. He's always prepared and chairs meetings most effectively. He has a strong regard for the town and has previously served very effectively as mayor.
“I think it is a fantastic opportunity for this town.”
Cllr Les Cruwys was also nominated for the position by Cllr Ben Holdman but was not selected following a paper ballot vote. Cllr Sue Griggs was nominated and won the vote for the position of deputy mayor.
Cllr Steve Bush nominated her, saying: “She's been an asset for the town over the years, brings a lot of experience to the role, and will be the perfect deputy for Cllr Davey.”
Cllr Lance Kennedy praised Cllr Cruwys as a “gentleman well known throughout the town and a fountain of knowledge”.
However, after missing out on becoming mayor, Cllr Cruwys turned down the position of deputy mayor, saying: “With thanks, I withdraw from that nomination. The main reason is the deputy mayoress is due to have her second daughter, so she would not be available for any civic duties.”
Cllr Ben Holdman was also nominated for the role of deputy mayor.