THE first citizen of Lyme Regis was formally installed for his second year at the helm at the annual mayor-making ceremony.

Cllr Owen Lovell was the only councillor put forward to lead the town council as locals and guests packed into the Guildhall for the traditional ceremony last week.

Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, who nominated Cllr Lovell for re-appointment as mayor, spoke in support of the first citizen saying he has helped the council "work hard for its residents" and had "fulfilled all my expectations" as mayor.

Reflecting on his first 12 months as mayor, Cllr Lovell described the authority as a "cohesive council".

He added: "That last year has flown by and we have had quite a successful year, with the completion of some mayor projects such as the skateboard park and the play park."

Cllr Richard Doney, in response to a toast to the town council by Ken Gollop, spoke about the difficult future local authorities may face in the future. He urged the town to judge the council in three years time, when all members will be up for re-election.

Cllr Doney also warned that the authority "must not change things so much that we destroy what we have already got”.

The town council staff were praised by Cllr Stephen Miller who said the town was "lucky to have such a dedicated team". Town clerk John Wright said that the council may have a "big role to play" in the future, with the uncertainty surrounding the future structure of local government.

He added: "The council have a very busy agenda in the future but I think we have a staff that can deliver that.”

Gilly Warr offered a toast to the town of Lyme Regis, sharing childhood memories of growing up in the town.

She said: “Lyme Regis is a wonderful place to live and I count myself lucky to have lived here for so long.”

Cllr Michaela Ellis, who was re-appointed as deputy mayor for a second year, responded to Ms Warr's toast, praising the town's events and organisations.

A toast to the press and media was then offered by Cllr Sean Larcombe, who spoke about the healthy relationship between the council and the press.

The mayor will hold the annual civic service at St Michael's Church in Sunday, June 12 at 10am.