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The mayor making ceremony at Lyme Regis. Pictured, from left, are mace bearer Colin Baker, town mayor Sally Holman, mayoress Jane Whittington, mace bearer Derek Hallett and town crier Phil Street

LYME'S re-elected mayor Sally Holman said she was proud to serve the town for a second term when she was installed as the town's first citizen at the ancient mayor-making ceremony last night (Thursday).

Coun Holman officially accepted the office of mayor at the ceremony in the Guildhall, when she vowed to continue trying to achieve the best for the town, its residents and visitors.

Aided by mace bearers Colin Baker and Derek Hallett, Coun Holman accepted the chain of office and traditional robes.

In her speech, the civic chief praised town crier Phil Street and council staff.

She said she was indebted' to the town's emergency services, and praised the town's organisations and groups. "Many volunteers take part often quietly and behind the scenes," she said.

Coun Holman paid tribute to the late Dave Smith, a well-loved sporting administrator in Lyme and Charmouth who died on Sunday following a car crash.

She said: "I think it is people like Dave that exemplify that positive community spirit that makes Lyme what it is."

Coun Holman's sister, Jane Whittington, will continue as Mayoress, with Coun Barbara Austin as deputy mayor, and Sheila Applebee as deputy mayoress, both also returning for a second term.

Toasting the mayor, Coun Austin said Coun Holman had done a tremendous job' in her first year.

Coun Austin said: "She cares passionately for Lyme Regis and the people. She works hard to keep our young people in the town, because we need them to keep our town alive."

Toasting the town council was local businessman Philip Evans, who said the mayor could draw on some great advice from fellow councillors, referring to Coun Stan Williams' experience, Coun Lorna Jenkins' enthusiasm and Coun Lucy Campbell's younger viewpoint.

Responding, Coun Jenkin said their main purpose as councillors is to ensure the town runs well and publicly owned property and open spaces are maintained.

She acknowledged that some of the issues they discuss are seen as trivial' but said this was a backdrop to much more significant matters. "Our deliberations will lead to projects that outlive us all," she said.

Toasting the town council officers and staff, Coun Stan Williams talked about the staffing reorganisation. He said: "The council staff and officers in this town play a very important part in its success, from the gardening staff, to the mini golf attendants, to the beach cleaners, and may I say, the dog warden/enforcement officers."

In response, town clerk Mike Lewis said he and the rest of the staff would continue to work hard to help Coun Holman enjoy a successful second term.

Toasting the town of Lyme Regis, Regatta and Carnival Committee secretary Alan Vian said: "Lyme Regis is the place it is today because of the people who lived here and the people who have shaped it over the years."

He added: "Now the mantle of responsibility lies with us."

Responding, district councillor Daryl Turner praised local emergency services and spoke about how young people are being forced to leave the town because of the lack of affordable housing. "Just where will our next generation of firefighters come from?" he said.

Toasting the press, Coun Ken Meech talked about the local media's honesty, integrity and patience, and the position of trust that exists between the press and the town council.

Responding, News reporter Adrianne Maslen said: "With a population of just over 3,000 people, I wonder if Lyme Regis really appreciates just how lucky it is to have three local newspapers, a radio station, plus one or two Devon and regional newspapers, covering the events of the town."

12:37pm Friday 16th May 2008

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