THE NEW Mayor of Evesham has expresses his hope of uniting younger and older residents of the town during his year in office.
Coun Fred Kaler addressed a packed town hall on Monday (May 18) after he was elected to the prestigious post.
The popular councillor, who represents the Little Hampton ward on Evesham Town Council, will be assisted during his year by his wife and new Mayoress Jean Kaler.
Coun Kaler said: “It’s a great honour for me to serve the community as Mayor. I know a number of people, far better than me, have served in the role, you only have to look around you this evening to see that.
“We should always remember that when planning for the future we should always pay attention to what is happening today,” he added.
Born in Sunderland, County Durham, Coun Kaler signed on for the Royal Engineers for his National Service and saw action in Egypt and Cyprus.
After leaving the military, Coun Kaler enjoyed retail roles in London and later in Scotland before moving to Evesham.
A founder member of the town’s Older People’s Forum, Coun Kaler was proposed for the role by Coun John Smith and seconded by Coun Robert Raphael who paid tribute to the respected councuillor.
“Evesham loves Fred Kaler as much as Fred Kaler loves Evesham,” he said.
Coun Kaler named two local charities as his chosen causes but added he would look at adding more in due course.
Respected councillor Alan Booth was named as deputy Mayor for the year ahead.
Earlier, outgoing Mayor Coun Charlie Homer thanked his family, friends and the community for supporting him during his term in office.
“The last year has gone extremely quickly, it’s hard to believe my time as Mayor is already over,” he said.
The respected councillor thanked his girlfriend Maren for her support throughout the year and to all the groups who welcomed him to their events.
One of his highlights was the naming of Jupiter Road in Evesham when Coun Homer said he humbled to welcome a veteran of HMS Jupiter to be part of the occasion.
Following the meeting, Coun Kaler and the lady Mayoress held a reception for family members and guests at All Saints Church.
