A FAMILIAR face will take over as mayor of Neyland for the coming year.

Cllr Margaret Brace handed over her mayoral chains to Cllr Simon Hancock – who will take on the role for the seventh time this year – on May 9.

Reflecting on her year at the top, Cllr Brace said: “The mayoral year makes you so proud to be part of it, and to live in this wonderful part of the world.

Cllr Brace’s charities for the year were the HOPE MS Centre in Neyland - which received £400 from her, Neyland Yacht Club also received £400, and £200 went to the St Clements Church Hall fund.

She welcomed new councillors William McGarvie and Daniel Blythe, and paid tribute to Cllr Hillary Richards, who stepped down recently, and the late Dennis Stolliday.

She thanked the town clerk, the Rev Canon Alan Chadwick, and her husband and consort Terry for their support over the last year.

“Terry has been my rock,” she said.

“He is a very patient man, and after carrying out the role three time he is aware we have to give up a year of our life.

“That means no meals, no clean shirts, and very few chores getting done!”

She also thanked county council chairman Cllr Wynne Evans for the profile he has given to the town’s Ladies’ Choir and Community School, his support of local events, and in being a “good friend”.

Her highlights were Neyland Carnival, being asked to judge at Narberth Carnival, Remembrance Sunday, and the town’s Christmas celebrations.

Cllr Hancock was first mayor in 1990, and said he was honoured to take on the job again.

“I see my role as being an ambassador for the community and to manage the affairs of the council with integrity and efficiency," he said.

Cllr Hancock’s goals for his next year in office include seeing plans to redevelop the Athletic Club, with the aim of construction work starting before May 2017, getting free public Wi-Fi for Neyland High Street, continuing improvements to the town play park, and enhancing the overall look of the town.

In his dual role as mayor and a county councillor, he said he will work to attract more housing for local people, and would like to see Picton Road – where the old Brunel Quay Hotel is sited – redeveloped.

Cllr Robin Howells was voted to take up the role of deputy.