Councillor Neal Davey has been elected as the mayor for the forthcoming year.
The decision was made on March 25, with Davey receiving a majority of the votes from his fellow councillors.
Councillor Tim Bridger nominated Cllr Davey for mayor. He said: “I've been involved in this council for probably 12 years, on and off 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.
Councillor Les Cruwys was also nominated for the position by Councillor Ben Holdman but was not selected following a paper ballot vote.
Councillor Sue Griggs was nominated and won the vote for the position of deputy mayor.
Councillor 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.”
Councillor Lance Kennedy praised Cllr Les 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. There’s not a lot for the deputy mayor to do these days, but the main reason is the deputy mayoress is due to have her second daughter, so she would not be available for any civic duties.”
Councillor Ben Holdman was also nominated for the role of deputy mayor.
