New mayor for Lewes

LEWES'S new mayor is the first to hail from the Cliffe area for 21 years.

Cllr Barbara Riddihough took over the mantle of the town's first citizen from Cllr John Webber at a special ceremony on Thursday last week.

The mother of two told councillors and guests there would be a celebratory event for senior citizens and a number of other events in the town to mark the Queen's Jubilee.

'I have also set myself a number of targets based upon my desire to promote town events,' she added. 'Accordingly, I shall be leading a traditional beating of the bounds. There will be participation in Heritage Day and I shall be organising town hall tours to run through the visitor season.

'I am pleased that Lewes will hopefully once more have a Town Crier to follow in the footsteps 120 years ago of Charles Woods.'

Cllr Riddihough said she would also continue the emphasis on music set by previous mayor, Cllr Webber.

'However my main thrust will be towards the provision of Christmas lights and I will be liaising with many of the local organisations and townspeople who have expressed enthusiasm and commitment to the idea,' she added.

'Where appropriate, I will also be supporting the Medical Foundation.'

The deputy mayor is Cllr Michael Chartier.

Cllr Ann De Vecchi paid tribute to Cllr Webber, saying he brought with him a background of administrative and musical skills. He supported twinning and helped set up a Lewes Youth Council.

The Esterhazy Choir gave a full rendition of Sussex by the Sea at the Mayoral reception which also featured the East Sussex Music School jazz ensemble.