THE New Mayor of Swindon was elected at a council meeting held yesterday.

Conservative councillor Nick Martin was voted through unanimously by his colleagues and will now serve for the next 12 months.

Coun Martin has been a member of Swindon Council for 27 years.

He was first elected in 1983 and has served continuously, with the exception of a three year gap in the 1990s.

Upon his appointment he said: “I want to thank the chamber for giving me the honour of being mayor.

“There is often much friction within the council but I am hoping that during the year we can work together.

“There are a lot less funds about than when I was first came to the council 30 years so it is important to work together with what is available.”

His nomination was put forward by Coun Keith Williams, who described the new mayor as a very hard working councillor who deserved his chance to perform to role.

The Swindon Mayor traditionally supports three charities throughout the year, and Coun Martin announced the three he will be raising money for are children’s disability charity Hop Skip and Jump in Shaw, Toothill Junior Youth Club and the Swindon Women’s Refuge.

He also said that he would happy to support any junior rugby events in Swindon.

The deputy mayor was also appointed at the meeting. Labour councillor Teresa Page, who represents Penhill and Upper Stratton, will hold the position for the year.

Out-going mayor, Mick Bray, spoke of his pride at holding the title for the last year, declaring that believed he been in the position during one the town’s finest years.

He named the Queen’s Jubilee, the Olympics and Paralympics as high points along with Swindon Town’s promotion to League One and Swindon Robins being crowned speedway champions.

Coun Bray also included the success of Jahmene Douglas on X Factor as a high point.

He also thanked his wife, Ruth, for her support during his time in office.

The council passed a motion thanking Coun Bray for his time as mayor.

During his year in office, just over £4,000 was raised for his three charities, although the exact final figure has not been calculated.

The three charities who will be receiving the money are the Swindon Therapy Centre for Multiple Sclerosis, Swindon Cruse and Swindon Guide Dogs.

He will remain as a councillor for Lydiard and Freshbrook.