THE NEW Mayor of Evesham has described local residents as the town’s ‘greatest asset’ and pledged to work with everyone during his year in office.
Coun Charlie Homer addressed a packed town hall on Monday (May 12) after he was elected to the prestigious post.
The popular councillor, who represents the south of Evesham on Evesham Town Council, will be assisted during his year by his girlfriend and new Mayoress Maren Fischer.
Coun Homer said: “I am a great believer that only by working together that real achievement can be made.”
“The people of Evesham are, I believe, it’s biggest and best asset and together I think we can have a great year.
Coun Homer said he hoped to ‘get his hands dirty’ during his year in office and has already pledged to take part in the Evesham
10K in July and the Cyclefest event being held in September.
The former Evesham High School head boy is one of the youngest Mayors in the town’s history and has broke with the tradition of naming his chosen charities.
“I know I have a lot to learn about Evesham and that is why I am choosing to work with local groups such as Evesham Rotary Club.” he said.
“I will fund-raise as Mayors normally do over the next year and will hand over the money raised to charities where I see the greatest need.”
Respected councillor Fred Kaler was named as deputy Mayor for the year ahead and will be supported by his wife Jean.
Earlier, outgoing Mayor Coun Mark Goodge thanked his family, friends and the community for supporting him during his term in office.
Coun Goodge presented cheques to his three chosen charities during the meeting; Caring Hands in the Vale, Ourside Youth Centre and the Evesham Bell Tower Appeal.
“The Mayoress and I have taken part in around 134 engagements and worked out I chaired on average three meetings a week and had one particularly memorable day where we attended four engagements in eight hours.” he said.
“I have just had one of the best years of my life but the best legacy I could possibly have is to be down in the ‘cheap seats’ in a few years time watching someone become Mayor of Evesham having been inspired to stand for the elections we have next
year.”
Following the meeting, Coun Homer and his Mayoress held a reception at Imagine in Market Square with refreshments from the Working World project.
Visit www.workingworldevesham.co.uk for more information on the project.
New Mayor Coun Charlie Homer and Mayoress Maren Fischer (right) with deputy Mayor Coun Fred Kaler and his wife Jean. Picture by Rob George
