Dawlish's outgoing mayor has issued a statement thanking the public for their support during her term in office.

Cllr Val Mawhood, who represents the Dawlish South West ward, was elected mayor last year on 5 May 2021.

She said: "As I approach the end of my term as Mayor, I would like to take the opportunity to say a big thank you to everyone for your support during the year and for helping me to raise funds for the local youth organisations.

"Although I will soon be retired as mayor, I will always be proud of Dawlish and the people who live here.

"I have had a great time getting to know Dawlish better and have discovered ever more about the community groups and organisations which provide help, support and fun activities throughout the parish.

"Of course, Covid is still in our minds, but how wonderful to remember so many volunteers stepping up, in all kinds of ways, to help us all through the dark days, including the marshals who worked to make it easy for everyone to get vaccinated at the community hospital. Many others worked with Helping Dawlish and the organisations which pulled together for the community, and of course we have been so grateful for our NHS staff.

"One of my favourite memories of the year is the Great Big Thank You event on the Lawn last August, when we paid tribute to them all.

"There have been so many 'stand out' days during my mayoral year, but the best part has always been meeting so many of you really special people. 

"It is you who make Dawlish such a lovely place to live and although there are tough times ahead, I know that you will all look out for each other and help each other to get by.

"Keep smiling and carry on being the amazing people who have made me so proud to represent Dawlish Parish this year."

The next mayor for the town will be elected at the annual town council meeting on Wednesday 4 May.