NEW Leamington mayor Bill Gifford is determined to keep his home town looking its best.
Coun Gifford, who also served as mayor in 2001-2, takes over the chain of office from Heather Calver.
The new mayor described Leamington as a “wonderful royal town with its beautiful Regency architecture and elegant parks,” and pledged to “promote a cleaner town to ensure that its beauty continues to shine through.”
Coun Gifford has lived in Leamington for more than 47 years and said he was “deeply honoured to have been elected” to serve a second time as mayor.
“What I chiefly remember from my previous time as mayor is discovering the huge number of voluntary groups there are, and the many people who give their time freely to support others.”
Coun Gifford has chosen two local charities to support.
“Springfield Mind, who have a base in Leamington, and one of their projects that I most admire is Green Minds which offers sessions of gardening and growing produce at their allotments, encouraging people with personal experiences of mental health difficulties to become involved in outdoor gardening activities, learn new skills and meet others.
“My other mayoral charity is The Pam Britton Trust for dementia – a non-profit organisation in Leamington which is dedicated to supporting both those with dementia and their family carers. They also facilitate the setting up of new local support groups and Dementia Cafes.
“I look forward to my mayoral year and to offer my support to the diverse community that is Royal Leamington Spa.”
