THERE is a new mayor of Abergele.

Cllr Alan Hunter was formally appointed in a virtual online ceremony over Zoom. This was a first for Abergele Town Council.

Cllr Hunter becomes mayor just a few weeks ahead of I'm a Celebrity, which is being hosted at Abergele's Gwrych Castle.

"It is a huge honour and privilege to be mayor and have my wife Cheryl by my side as mayoress of the town we love and have called home for the past 28 years," cllr Hunter said.

"Sadly many of the usual duties of the mayor, such as visiting local clubs, care homes and events have been put on hold, however we look forward to being out and about as soon as it’s safe to do so.

"For now I would urge everyone to do their best to be the best they can during these uncertain times."

Cllr Hunter, who represents the Pensarn and Belgrano ward, joined Abergele Town Council in June 2015.

"We’ve had quite a few meetings by Zoom so the work of the council can continue and it works very well for us," cllr Hunter added.

"During Covid and times of lockdown our clerk, staff and councillors have continued to meet remotely so the work of the council has continued while maintaining safe practices.

"Myself and fellow councillors have been hugely impressed with how our traders, residents and schools have adapted and coped with the pressures of Covid.

"It’s at times like this when we get to see the true sense of community at its best."

Talking about the buzz of excitement ahead of I'm a Celebrity, cllr Hunter said: "To have one of the biggest TV shows come to Abergele is a great boost and it couldn’t have come at a better time for our businesses, residents, future tourism and the restoration of our iconic landmark Gwrych Castle.

"ITV have used local trades and local people to supply and work on site.

"The window displays are a fine example of how the people of Abergele and Pensarn have embraced the visit of Ant and Dec and the celebrities."

It has been proposed that cllr Hunter remains in the post for the 2021/22 municipal year - he will serve 18 months in all.

Former mayor cllr Shirley Jones-Roberts was in the post for 18 months.

St Kentigern and Canolfan Dewi Sant, Pensarn, have been chosen as the mayor's charities.

Cllr Charlie McCoubrey is deputy mayor and his wife Gaynor will serve as deputy mayoress.