AN Okehampton businessman was last week elected to be the town's new mayor, following the annual meeting held in the Charter Hall.

Businessman Cllr David Weekes won the election after a close call between himself and Cllr Peter Stunell, who will be deputy mayor.

Cllr Weekes said: 'I feel proud and will do my best for Okehampton during the next year.

'Okehampton is a great market town and I want to bring its spirit back to how it used to be.

'We look after our own in this town and anyone who wants to come here will be welcomed with open arms.'

Retiring mayor of Okehampton, Cllr Kay Bickley, said: 'Cllr Weekes has been my deputy for the last year and as deputy it gives him a world of experience.

'It also gives him an idea of what the role involves. He's a local man and extremely aware of Okehampton and its problems.

'Cllr Weekes has a lot to offer and he will represent the town well.

Speaking of her time as mayor Cllr Bickley said: 'It has been a great privilege to represent Okehampton this year as mayor.

'Okehampton Town Council gains tremendously from working in partnership and liaising with key stakeholders and community groups.

'I am a great believer in sharing information to help move matters forward and empower others.

'To this end we have been working with residents, the business community, the police and West Devon Borough Council on two key projects this year.

'We want to help reduce criminal damage, anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime, and the imposition of an alcohol-free zone and an agreed CCTV proposal for the town centre and the park.

'Throughout the year we have been in talks with services to help the development of Okehampton.'

Mrs Bickley said the rise in alcohol related incidents before the courts in the central Devon area was cause for concern.

'Taking local responsibility for local problems is central to the sustainable communities' initiative that we have been patiently waiting to come to fruition,' said Cllr Bickley, whose chosen charity for the year was the Okehampton Foodbank.

'To date we have distributed 12 boxes, proving there is a need and that there are those in crisis within our community,' said Cllr Bickley.