HASLEMERE North and Grayswood councillor David Round is Haslemere’s new town mayor with his wife Melanie Odell, who has held the office herself three times, as mayoress.

Shottermill ward member Pat Blades has been elected deputy mayor for 2018/19, with her husband Derek as her consort.

Proposing Mr Round, who is also a Waverley borough councillor for Haslemere and Grayswood, at the mayor-making ceremony at the town council, fellow member Michael Dover said: “David has lived in Haslemere for 46 years.

“He is a very down to earth fellow, who has had more than his fair share of tragedy.

“He lost his first wife, but fate shined kindly on him when he met Melanie, who took him in hand. Their wedding was the perfect match.”

Mr Round said: “I never thought I would be mayor of this beautiful town.

“My nominated charities will be Haslemere Penny Ha’Penny Trust and the museum’s Horizon Project.

“My predecessor Malcolm Carter will be a hard act to follow. He has been a great mayor. Very fair and effective.”

Mr Carter was presented with a photo album as a souvenir of his year.