A NEW town mayor has been appointed for Winsford, as Cllr Mike Kennedy steps down from the role next week.

Cllr Gina Lewis has been selected to represent the town and was officially instilled with her mayoral title at the town council meeting on Monday, May 21, at 7pm.

She said: “It is set to be a very interesting year when I take over as the town mayor. We have lots of special anniversaries coming up to mark and I am looking forward to making my mark on the town.

“I have two main themes this year, peace and hope, and I have chosen two charities to reflect this. The peace given to families by the RBL and the hope given to those supported by Alzheimer’s UK.

Cllr Lewis hopes to shine a light on those in the Winsford community living with Alzheimer’s, after her husband and consort Denis was diagnosed with the condition five years ago and continues to lead a happy and active life.

The Over ward councillor, who will be supported by Cllr Ailsa Gaskill-Jones as deputy mayor, also looks forward to making the actions and opinions of women in the community count.

She added: “With this being the 100th year since women won the right to vote, I feel passionately about helping more women in Winsford feel like they can get involved in local politics.

“Whether that be things like attending meetings to express their views or even if some are looking to become councillors, I hope to look back and see that I have helped make a long-term difference in the way or council runs.”

Cllr Lewis will also run events in the town to help mark the start of the National Health Service, which will have been running for 70 years on July 5.

Retiring town mayor, Cllr Mike Kennedy, handed cheques for £3,000 each to his chosen charities - St. Luke's Cheshire Hospice and the Winsford Youth and Community Forum – before handing Cllr Lewis was enrobed.

He identified the progression of the Brunner Guildhall, various well-attended civic events and the incredible people who were recognised at the Winsford Oscars as some of his highlights over the year.

Cllr Kennedy wished his deputy mayor well in the new role, describing her as ‘a very dedicated and experienced councillor’.

To find out more about what the town council are doing, go to winsford.gov.uk