Mayor: ‘I have been inspired by town’s response to Covid-19’

Following his election last Tuesday, Coun Hobson told the Leader: “I have been inspired over recent weeks by the care and thoughtfulness of people in the town.

“Neighbours looking out for each other, people giving to those in need, businesses helping those in the front line and restaurateurs cooking food for those isolating at home in need of hot meals. There have been so many people volunteering to help others.

“I know we have some very difficult times ahead, but the people of Louth are resilient.

“Together we can overcome the worst of this crisis and by working together we can ensure that we are all safe and can look forward to rebuilding our future in this beautiful, friendly market town.”

Coun Hobson continued: “I have had the privilege of calling Louth ‘home’ for my entire life and I live in Louth with my wonderful wife, Sarah-Jayne.

“It is a precious jewel in the heart of Lincolnshire, a town of which we can all feel very proud.

“With a background in education (formerly a full-time class teacher and subsequently a supply teacher and long-serving governor), one of the focuses during my mayoral year will inevitably be to engage with the fabulous schools in Louth; although at present, they too are having to adapt very quickly to our current situation.

“Louth has long been known for its fabulous education provision and our schools are a tremendously important part of the community. They are the building blocks that will help to form the future of Louth.

“Sarah-Jayne and I look forward to talking with the people of Louth during the months ahead and celebrating everything that makes this town such a very special place.

“I am truly honoured that my town council colleagues have entrusted me with the role of mayor of Louth for the forthcoming year.

“Councillor Fran Treanor, along with his mayoress, Jane, will be a tough act to follow.

“Councillor Treanor has served our town with dedication for many years as a councillor and twice as mayor.

“For the last three months his steadiness and vast experience has served Louth and the town council incredibly well as we have all had to come to terms with this terrible virus and the effects it has had on our town’s residents and businesses.

• Note: Councillor David Wing served as the deputy mayor for the last 12 months, and would therefore have traditionally been expected to take on the mayoral role this year. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic and his desire to socially-distance as much as possible, Coun Wing opted to stand aside.