THE new mayor of Okehampton has expressed his desire to act as an ambassador for the town, and attend as many of its functions as possible.

Cllr the Rev Mike Davies said: 'As mayor I have very little statutory power. I do, however, have a voice to represent the town and its community. In being the mayor, I get invited to many functions around the county, and it is my aim to sing the praises of Okehampton and its people wherever I go.

'The arrival of the Olympic torch showed that we can rival any town in Devon for enthusiasm.

'We have some excellent businesses, great schools, a great history, ideal natural surroundings, and many great community champions.

'If I have one aim, it is to encourage people in speaking positively about Okehampton and raising its profile in the South West.'

One of the new mayor's first duties was to watch the Olympic torch pass through the town. He watched the relay pass through the town centre alongside the new mayor of West Devon, Robin Musgrave.

If any organisation or function organiser would like the attendance of the mayor of Okehampton at their event, they can write to the Town Clerk, Okehampton Town Council, Fore Street, Okehampton, EX20 1AA.