NORTHWICH has confirmed the appointment of its new town mayor.

Cllr Graham Emmett took possession of the mayoral chains from Cllr Sam Naylor at a ceremony on Monday (April 16).

Cllr Emmett, who has lived in the town for the past 25 year, said he was incredibly proud to be the mayor of such a 'progressive' town council and wanted to help make a difference as much as possible.

He thanked the council for electing him into the role and for doing the same for Cllr Jane Thomas, will sit as his deputy over the next 12 months.

Cllr Emmett said: “When I first moved to Northwich all those years ago, I considered it to be a very affluent town.

“But just peek below the surface and you will see there is a great and growing demand for the services of food banks and community-led food initiatives.

“The increases in gas and electricity prices coming down the line will only increase demand for these services.

“With this in mind, I have chosen for the Mayor’s Charity, Northwich Community Support, which made an impressive appeal to us earlier in the year and is led by Lee Burstow.

“Jane and I have been to see the way they work and were very impressed at the difference that are making.

“I want to take a lead in influencing the council’s strategy to tackle some of the problems we will face in the coming months.”

Northwich Guardian: Cllr Graham Emmett is the new town mayor of NorthwichCllr Graham Emmett is the new town mayor of Northwich

Cllr Emmett, who is now retired after a successful career in the computer software industry, has two grown-up daughters and has spent the last decade living in the town centre.

“We are lucky to have such a progressive town council and the range of events and occasions in Northwich is the envy of other towns.

“Who else can boast of an international dance festival, a free music festival, a soapbox cart race, a two-day river festival, a Pina colada festival, Christmas festivals and a monthly Artisan Market.”

Cllr Emmett said he also hoped to play a part in helping transform areas and buildings that have been neglected across the town, including working with Cheshire West and Chester Council to find a long-term solution to Weaver Square.