I would like to thank all those people who attended the Minehead Annual Town Meeting on May 14 for the interest they showed in our town and their support of the new incoming Independent Council.

Having been elected mayor for the coming year, I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor, Cllr Norman Hercock, for his year of service to the town, during which time he did much to build bridges between the council and residents.

I would particularly like to thank him for initiating the mayor’s coffee morning, a practice I intend to continue this year in order to have regular meetings with residents.

These will be held on the first Wednesday of each month, 10am to noon, at the Old Hospital in The Avenue, Minehead, and I look forward to continuing Norman’s lead in being open and available to any who wish to come.

Sandra Slade, Mayor, Minehead Town Council.