MALDON Town Council has appointed its new mayor who is “honoured” to take on the role for the third time.

Councillor Andrew Lay was appointed by peers to become the mayor of Maldon after the local authority’s annual town council meeting.

This will be the third time Mr Lay will serve as the town’s mayor and only five councillors have served three consecutive terms as mayor since 1810 when the office of mayor was re-introduced.

A spokesman for the town council said: "Councillor Lay's re-election signifies the council's continued confidence in his leadership and dedication to serving the Maldon community.

“During his previous two terms, he has championed several key initiatives, including the condition of the Blackwater River, the acquisition of Warwick Crescent allotments to protect the future of the site, and more.”

Mayor Lay has chosen Action for Family Carers Maldon and Farleigh Hospice as his designated charities during his mayoral term.

In his acceptance speech at the meeting, he expressed his gratitude to the council for their trust.

"I’m honoured and humbled to have been re-elected as mayor of this wonderful unique historic town," he said.

“I would like to thank my fellow Councillors and especially the retiring deputy mayor and mayoress councillor Martin and Mrs Wendy Harvey.

“Their love of the Town, dedicated service, support, and humour is greatly appreciated."

Councillor John Driver has been appointed the deputy town mayor and his wife, Denise Driver, as deputy mayoress.