The new mayor and deputy mayor of Caerphilly County Borough have been revealed.
Cllr Julian Simmonds, who represents Crosskeys, accepted the role of mayor at the Annual Meeting of Council on Thursday, May 9.
Meanwhile, Bargoed councillor Carol Andrews has been announced as deputy mayor.
Cllr Simmonds, who has served as deputy mayor for the last 12 months, said: “I consider it a real honour and privilege to be serving as the county borough’s mayor for the forthcoming year.
“I will be joined by my wife of almost 25 years, Karen in representing Caerphilly County Borough. We look forward to meeting as many residents as possible in the many civic engagements that the year ahead will bring.”
During his year in office, Cllr Simmons has chosen to raise money for two charities – Action for Children and Liver4Life.
He will replace outgoing mayor Cllr Mike Adams, whose term as mayor has come to an end.
Mayoral terms last a year and it is common for the deputy mayor to take over as mayor.
Speaking about his time as mayor, Cllr Adams said: “It was very good. My wife Gloria and I both enjoyed our year.
“We met lots of people and it was a privilege to represent Caerphilly County Borough. It was a really exciting experience.”
Cllr Adams added: “We’ve now got in place two recently-elected councillors in these two positions. I’m sure they’ll be good in their roles.
“Julian made numerous visits in his role as deputy mayor so he has experience under his belt and knowing Carol, I’m sure she’ll enjoy getting out and meeting people in her new role.”