VETERAN councillors have been named as the new mayor and deputy for Frinton and Walton Town Council.

Robert Bucke was voted for at the council’s mayor-making ceremony after acting as deputy to Jack Robertson for the last year.

He is joined by Iris Johnson, who was sworn in as deputy mayor.

When announcing his choice, Jack Robertson referenced Mr Bucke’s “sterling work”.

He added that Mr Bucke had stood by him throughout his time as mayor.

Mr Bucke responded: “I’d like to pay tribute to Jack, for all he’s done in the last two years and the years before.

“It’s business as usual in many and most respects.

“Thank you for all you’ve done for the area and I know we will continue.”

Speaking to the full council, he added: “And thank you to the support you’ve given me during this time. May we have many happy days.”

Mrs Johnson said: “Thank you for accepting me as deputy mayor again. I’m looking forward to this year with Robert.”

Nick Turner congratulated the pair, wishing them a “full and successful year”.

Turning his attention to the new mayor, he added: “As the first citizen of the towns of Walton and Frinton plus the villages of Great Holland, Kirby Cross and Kirby-le-Soken, made up of nearly 20,000 souls, you have a position of responsibility and power.

“You will be able to lead this council back to the sunlit uplands it used to enjoy and not the dark, dank cave it now inhabits by using all the talents that are at your disposal.”