GENEROUS praise was given to Castle Point’s former mayor as a new one was elected for the borough.

Peter Burch, Conservative councillor for Cedar Hall ward, was officially handed the mayoral chain at a full council meeting on Wednesday.

He replaces Jackie Govier, Conservative councillor for St George’s ward, and has pledged to raise money for a range of local charities, rather than specify official charities.

Councillors were full of commendation for Mrs Govier for her dedication to the role, despite facing extreme hardship over the past year following the death of her husband John.

Bill Dick, councillor for St Peter’s ward, said: “Jackie is a small person, but has a big personality which shines above everybody.

“It has not been an easy year. She has had many trials and tribulations to deal with and has still been here to do her civic duties. She really has left her own stamp on this job.”

The meeting also saw councillor Pam Challis elected as leader of the council for the tenth consecutive year.

Mrs Challis said: “It is a tremendous privilege which I do not take for granted. I do not need to tell you that the life of today’s councillor is far busier than that of ten years ago.

“Thank you for your indulgence and I personally pledge myself to the tasks ahead.”

A special presentation was also made to former councillor Enid Isaacs, who is in her eighties and decided to step down this year from her seat in Victoria ward, making way for green belt activist Simon Hart.

Maryse Iles, Conservative councillor for Cedar Hall ward, has become deputy mayor.

Cabinet responsibilities remain the same as last year.

For information on inviting the mayor and deputy mayor to attend local functions, contact Kellie Jeffery on 01268 882334 or e-mail mayor@castlepoint.gov.uk