'WE must journey together for what is for the good of the town' — the words of the new mayor of Okehampton at the mayor choosing last Wednesday.

Cllr the Rev Mike Davies received the chain of office from outgoing mayor Cllr Maureen McDonald in a civic ceremony at the town hall.

Cllr the Rev Davies acknowledged that it is impossible to foresee what may happen in the future, but said the town council and community should pull together to make the future as bright for Okehampton as possible.

He said: 'We do not want to be yet another sprawling town so we need to retain our community spirit and identity.

'There is, of course, a tacit tug of war between keeping the town's identity and embracing change. As a council and as a town we need to be clear on our vision.

'As a council, we need to be integrated in such a way that we can influence and guide the changes that will inevitably be coming. It is with this in mind that we are now aiming to work closer with our neighbouring Okehampton Hamlets Parish Council. I acknowledge that we have little power, but we do have a voice.

'A lot of time can be wasted with meeting after meeting producing no apparent fruit. Alternatively, we can set a vision, keep to such a vision and unite to produce valuable outcomes which will benefit this town.

'As councillors we have our differences, but we must journey together for what is for the good of the town. We must embrace change but we must not sit back and just accept what comes our way.

'We have a great community with many great community champions. What is required is for us to listen to these champions and set our vision.'

He expressed thanks to outgoing mayor Cllr McDonald, his fellow councillors, and to his wife, Justine.

Before the handover of the chain of office, Cllr McDonald carried out the last of her duties as mayor.

At the beginning of their year in office, the mayor chooses two charities to support throughout their tenure. Cllr McDonald chose to support North Dartmoor Search and Rescue Team, and the Okehampton division of St John Ambulance.

She presented NDSRT chairman Andy Aiano and outgoing St John Ambulance divisional superintendent Dot Kaines with cheques for £1,000 for both organisations.

Mrs Kaines was also one of four community figures presented with Okehampton Mayor Awards for their outstanding contribution to the community. She was recognised for her 20 years with St John Ambulance and ten years as divisional superintendent.

The Rev David Waters of New Life Church was recognised for his work with the youth of the town and 22 years of service with the church.

Town council mace bearer David Hollinshead was given an award to recognise 30 years of exceptional service to the council, and Robert Flexman was given an award for his involvement with the Community Neighbours project, the Devon Heartlands Community Forum and tireless work to clean up litter.

Mayor the Rev Davies' two chosen charities for the year are the Children's Hospice South West and Okehampton and District Duke of Edinburgh Award.