Bognor Regis has officially welcomed a new town mayor.

The election was made official at the annual town council meeting on Monday (May 11), with Paul Ralph now serving as Bognor's first citizen for the coming year.

The appointment marks the end of outgoing mayor Gill Yeates’ mayoral year, during which she represented the town at events across the community and supported local charities and voluntary organisations.

Reflecting on her time in office, Mrs Yeates said: "I have had a truly wonderful and unforgettable year in tenure, attending so many events in and around our town."

placeholder image — New Mayor, Cllr Paul Ralph

She also thanked deputy mayor Paul Wells, fellow councillors and community organisations for their support throughout the year, adding: "It has been a year to remember, and I will be forever proud to have served as Mayor of Bognor Regis."

New mayor, Mr Ralph said he was 'honoured' to have been elected and praised his predecessor for her service to the town.

He said: "Wow, what an amazing honour it is to have been elected as the new Mayor of Bognor Regis."

Originally from Wimbledon, Mr Ralph studied law at University College London before a career in advertising and computing. He and his wife moved to Bognor Regis ten years ago after many years holidaying on the coast with their family.

The appointment marks the end of outgoing mayor Gill Yeates’ mayoral year, during which she represented the town at events across the community and supported local charities and voluntary organisations. Photo: Hope Centre Food Bank

During his mayoral year, he will continue supporting homelessness charity Stonepillow as his chosen cause.

He said: "Homelessness, both locally and nationally, is an issue I care deeply about, and I hope to use my tenure to help raise greater awareness and much-needed funds for the cause."

Councillor Ralph also announced that Cadet First Class Nevaeh Kane of Bognor Regis Sea Cadets will serve as his Mayor’s Cadet for the year.

He added: "It is a tremendous honour to have been chosen as Mayor of Bognor Regis.

"I feel a strong connection to the community and am looking forward to getting to know our wonderful seaside town even better throughout my mayoral year."