At Narberth Town Council’s Annual General Meeting which was held on May 4, Clr. Christopher Walters passed on his Mayoral Chain and First Citizen duties to Clr. Sue Rees, who had been his Deputy Mayor.

Clr. Walters, who became one of Pembrokeshire’s youngest mayors since serving the role from May 2019 said: “It has been such a huge privilege to serve as Mayor of Narberth. My first term as Mayor flew by and little did I think I would still here one year on through a horrific pandemic!

“As someone who is born and bred in the town - the role has given me such an eye-opener to the fantastic things that happen in our town and the great community groups and organisations who are actively a part of it every day, but I am extremely proud of the people I have served and the town whose blood runs through my veins.

“I have always said since being a councillor I feel our biggest let down is we do not shout enough about what happens in our town - as we have so many great businesses, venues, organisations etc - all who do so much yet we never hear about them.

“I encourage everyone - no matter how little it may be - shout about it! Let people know you are there!

“I would like to think whilst being Mayor I have done everything I can to both support and promote the town in places I have visited as a guest,” he continued.

Clr. Walters said that for those that might be new to the Narberth area, he challenges them to go and explore the ‘wonderful town’ and look at the great Youth Groups available, such as the Beavers, Brownies, Scouts, Rainbows, Guides and Explorers, all the way up to the Narberth Senior Citizens, WI, Royal British Legion Branch etc.

“Trust me you will find something you will love to be a part of,” remarked Clr. Walter.

“Through 2020/21 our town like many others has had the huge struggles of the pandemic with many residents suffering the loss of loved ones or not being able to visit or see friends and family etc.

“Hopefully, this year will bring in some new hope and I know we will all pull together to get out the other end.

“Although I pass on my baton as Mayor, I will continue to work tirelessly in ensuring we have a great town, and I will continue with my promises made to residents on projects and improvements around the town, that I can assure everyone!

“I would also like to thank my mum, who has been my Mayoress since my appointment and stood by me throughout my term.

“My partner Bron who has never complained about my late night meetings and having to deal with various bits of council work; my sister Janie for her support too; and behind every great Mayor is an awesome town clerk - Mrs. Caroline Coaker (Pembrokeshire’s longest serving town clerk!) who has been there to guide me and ensure everything I have done complies with our legal responsibilities. I cannot thank Caroline enough.

“Finally, you may be reading this as a young reader or someone who feels they can give something back to the town.

“Narberth Town Council needs people like you to decide its future. Applicants to become a councillor start from the age of 18, and I would encourage everyone, if you’ve got an opinion, a suggestion or even something that drives you to set the vision and direction of our town - please apply now to become a town councillor.

“I certainly did and am very proud of the community I represent for all,” he added.FOOTNOTE: There are currently two vacancies for the office of Councillor on Narberth Town Council, and as there was no call for an election the Town Council will now co-opt to fill the positions.Any person willing to fill this vacancy should apply to the Clerk in writing on or before May 14. The applicant must be over the age of 18 years and their name must appear on the current register of the Voters list. The applicant should during the whole of the twelve months preceding the relevant date have resided in or within three miles of Narberth, or the applicant’s only place of work during the whole of the twelve months preceding the relevant date is in Narberth. Please write to: Mrs. Caroline Coaker, Narberth Town Clerk & RFO, Sunnyhill, Woodford Lane, Robeston Wathen, Nr Narberth, SA67 8EN