Pomp and circumstance as Wisbech gets a new mayor for 2019/20

Wisbech has a new mayor following the annual ceremony at the council chambers today (Friday).

Councillor Michael Hill who has performed the role of deputy mayor for the past 12 months was unanimously elected to take the chain of office for 2019/20.

His deputy will be Councillor Aigars Balsevics, who was successfully re-elected for a second term as town councillor but failed to fulfil his ambition of becoming a district representative for the first time in the May 2 elections.

Outgoing mayor Councillor Peter Human was praised by the council's leader Councillor Sam Hoy for his dedication and commitment over the past 12 months with the support of his wife Janet.

Coun Human described his time in office as "incredible" and said he had attended over 240 events. Highlights of his year included to meetings with Royalty, the Duke Gloucester and the Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.

He raised £4,000 for good causes and has handed out the cash to various local organisations.

As usual the mayor making including traditional pomp and ceremony of a procession of councillors and the official handing over of the chain of office.

Coun Hill said he was looking forward to his year in the role.

Latvian born Coun Balsevics runs a number of pubs in the town and speaks English fluently, he also speaks several other languages.