New mayor urges foodbank donations
THE new Mayor of Bridgend County Borough marked the start of his year in office by asking his inauguration guests to bring along donations for Bridgend Foodbank.
Councillor John McCarthy, who represents the Hendre ward, will be supported during the coming year by his wife, Judy, while Councillor Stuart Baldwin will act as deputy mayor.
Bridgend Youth Council will announce their own youth mayor and deputy later on.
Mayor McCarthy has confirmed that he intends to spend his year supporting carers, community volunteers and some of the diverse cultures and ethnic groups that can be found within the area.
He will also support the charity work of Tenovus, the Bridgend Stroke Association and the Bridgend Parkinsons’ Association.
Mayor McCarthy said: “I am honoured and delighted to represent the people of Bridgend County Borough.
“I want to visit as many local community groups and organisations as possible, and support united services clubs and the Royal British Legion.
“I also want to encourage more young people to get involved in local events, and once the new youth mayor and deputy mayor have been announced, I intend to liaise with them closely so that we can work in partnership on this.
“As Mayor, I believe I can help by recognising and encouraging new business, assisting in future development and offering support and advice in a positive way that will attract new ventures into the area.
“I’m keen to work alongside organisa- tions such as the council’s economic development team to help generate jobs and prosperity in the area.
“I’m particularly looking forward to welcoming people from all over the world as they become citizens of the United Kingdom, and residents who live and work in Bridgend County Borough.”
If you would like to invite the new Mayor to any events or celebrations that you organising during the next year, please call the Mayor’s office at Bridgend County Borough Council on 01656 643250 or email mayor@bridgend.gov.uk