FULL mayoral regalia, pomp and circumstances were the order of the day at the annual mayor choosing ceremony at Okehampton last Wednesday.
Civic dignitaries, town residents, schoolchildren and teachers gathered to watch Cllr Christine Marsh accept the office of mayor for the third year running.
She told those present that she appreciated the support which had been given to her throughout the previous two years and praised the 'backbone of the community', those who worked hard for others.
She said her most enjoyable visit in the last year was to the primary school.
'Their perception was amazing, and I think the mace-bearers collected a few fans on the way.'
Cllr Marsh said she particularly enjoyed the pupils' direct questioning — for example, 'Do you live in London like the Queen?', 'Do you have lots of jewels?' and best of all 'Do you have a bullet-proof vest?'!
She said the forthcoming year would be 'interesting' with plenty of changes and challenges to face, including renovating Simmons Park thanks to a successful Lottery bid, and working to draw down funds under the Government's market towns initiative.
Cheques were also presented to two organisations — the mayor's chosen charity the Okehampton Hospital Appeal, and Okehampton Ring and Ride scheme.
Dr Paul Nielson accepted the cheque for £5,000 on behalf of the Hospital Appeal.
Cllr Marsh explained that the £13,400 presented to Okehampton Ring and Ride by the council was the result of a partnership scheme with Devon County Council.
Presentations were also made to council personnel. Mace-bearer Ernie Chammings, who is retiring after 22 years, was given a carriage clock, while Graham Smith, who has been with the council for 40 years, was presented with a pair of binoculars.
The new mace-bearer is Basil Jones, who performed his first duty at the civic service on Sunday.
There has also been a change of mayor's cadet — Cllr Marsh thanked Leroy Hearn for his hard work and hoped he had enjoyed his time in the role.