CASTLE Point has a new mayor who was quickly summed up as a “top bloke”.

David Cross was nominated by fellow Tory, and council deputy leader, Jeffrey Stanley.

The annual mayor-making took place in front of a packed public gallery, and full council chamber, at the council’s offices in Kiln Road, Thundersley.

Mr Stanley said: “I have known David for a good number of years.

“I know that he is well-suited for the task, being friendly, popular and with a strong sense of community values.

“He is, in short, a top bloke.”

Noting Mr Cross shares his initials with new Prime Minister David Cameron, Mr Stanley added: “This must be the year for DCs. I wish DC, the new Prime Minster, well and DC, the new mayor, well too.”

The nomination was seconded by Norman Smith (Cons, Boyce). No other nominations were put forward.

As is customary on Castle Point Council, Mr Cross had served as deputy mayor during the past year.

Jackie Govier (Cons, St George’s) was named deputy mayor.

Bill Dick (Cons, St Peter’s) congratulated outgoing mayor Cliff Brunt, praising his efforts to raise money for three-year-old Canvey tot Lillyann Quinn, who is suffering from cancer.

He said: “I know he has done everything in his power to try to assist raising money for her.”

The meeting also saw Pam Challis officially re-elected as leader of the council, and Mr Stanley re-elected as her deputy.

Cabinet members for the coming year were also announced.

There were no changes to last year’s line-up other than the addition of Godfrey Isaacs (Cons, St James’s) as member for safer communities.

He replaces Tony Belford, who retired as a councillor ahead of the elections.