VIDEO: '˜Father of the council is new Mayor of Skegness'

Coun Dick Edginton became Mayor of Skegness at a ceremony in the Town Hall last night, taking over from Coun Carl Macey.

Nominating him, Coun Neil Cooper said: “Coun Edginton has been in politics for 40 years – so long he’s become regarded as the father of the council. Serving on Lincolnshire County Council and East Lindsey District Council, he has done everything and has always been someone to look up to.

In accepting the chain of office, Coun Edginton, said he was delighted to be Mayor and replacing Coun Macey would be “a hard act to follow”. He said: “It is a tremendous honour. I have been on the council for many years but for various reasons it was not right when my time came round previously. Now I have the time and I will give it my full commitment. My priorities are promote the town whenever I can to make sure that the councillors within the chamber participate in decision making so they feel they are making a meaningful contribution and to be an ambassador for the town,”

Coun Macey was praised for his year of office in which he attended more than 200 engagements, the highlight of which was meeting Princess Anne when she visited Skegness to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Debyshire Holiday Centre. He said: “It’s been absolutely fabulous. There have been many many highlights it’s difficult to pick one. One of the best for me was meeting Princess Anne.

“My focus will now be back into council work to do what I can help residents and I will support the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor.”

The new Deputy Mayor replacing Coun Edginton is Coun Danny Brookes.

After the ceremony a reception was held at the Vine Hotel.