A COUNCILLOR has become a town's new mayor - 10 years on from his last stint in the prestigious role.

Cllr Gavin Harris is the new mayor of Ruthin, replacing Cllr Ian Lewney.

"A decade on from when I first had the honour of being mayor of Ruthin in 2009, I am now extremely proud to represent the town once again in this role," said Cllr Harris.

"During that time, Ruthin has seen many changes with a population increase of around 1,000, which for a small town is around 20 per cent growth.

"How we ensure such an historic market town as Ruthin maintains a sustainable and viable future has been one of my passions, and it has been humbling to appreciate the support and encouragement from across the community for initiatives such as Ruthin Future which has sought to look to the future in a positive way.

"As a volunteer community council, Ruthin Town Council has had to take on more responsibilities as austerity has impacted what Denbighshire County Council can do, but working in partnership with them and in a spirit of co-operation with local community organisations, we are focussed on delivering initiatives and projects that enhance the lives, environment and success of the town for it’s community."

During the next year, Cllr Harris says he will focus on delivering tangible projects that the community have supported.

"We have been overwhelmed by the success of our community Crowdfunding and sponsorship campaign by the local community towards the Old Courthouse project, with our initial fundraising target of £8,000 smashed and Crowdfunding now approaching £12,000," he added.

"With additional generous donations and sponsorship from local businesses, Ruthin Town Council has all but reached their funding targets for this project."

Last week's meeting of the full council voted unanimously to proceed to the next phase for the refurbishment and the creation of the new community, civic and visitor hub on St Peter’s Square.

"This week will also see some progress on the other element of the ‘Heart of The Town’ aspect of Ruthin Future, with important surveying work taking place on the square and approaching streets, which will then allow highways engineers and designers to undertake computer mapping and analysis of how traffic can navigate the town centre in a way which allows improvements to the pedestrian experience and the release of more space for events, additional parking and enhancement of the historic town centre environment," added Cllr Harris.

"Having lived in Ruthin for over 17 years, and with numerous community consultations always placing ‘Improve St Peter’s Square’ at the top of the priorities, it will be an exciting longer-term project to develop with the community and hopefully garner funding and support to finally deliver.

"Day-to-day as mayor, I will work to promote the town and attend as many community events and activities as possible, to support the huge amount of effort and volunteering that takes place by so many community organisations.

"Whilst my proper job as partner of manorhaus... limits some times that I can attend, I will do my best to participate and support as many things as possible.

"If groups and organisers would like me or deputy mayor Heather Williams to attend, we welcome invitations or prior notice which can be sent to our town clerk.

"I will be hosting a number of events during the year in aid of the mayor's charities - which this year include Parkinson’s UK and RNIB, as well as local projects and community groups.

"The Civic Sunday in July at Nantclwyd y Dre will be a celebration of the community and volunteers that make Ruthin, and the mayor’s ball in November will be a black tie event aimed at raising as much money as possible for the charities.

"Finally, may I than my partner and mayor's consort Christopher, fellow councillors, and all those in the Ruthin community for their support so far and I look forward to meeting as many people as possible and doing all that I can to promote and deliver the best for Ruthin during the coming year."

Outgoing Ruthin mayor Cllr Ian Lewney said: "It has been an honour and a privilege being the mayor of Ruthin for the last 12 months.

"I have through enjoyed representing this wonderful town.

"Ruthin Town Council has been ambitious with the purchase of the Old Courthouse and it has been a joy to see this come into fruition.

"The new mayor Cllr Gavin Harris, is an excellent choice, with his previous experience and knowledge.

"He will be supported by the new deputy mayor, Cllr Heather Williams, who is a great asset."