Newquay has an environmentally conscious mayor to lead the town council for the forthcoming civic year.

Newquay Town Council voted in Cllr Drew Creek for the next 12 months and outgoing mayor Cllr Margaret North as the deputy mayor.

Cllr Creek, who leads the Green Party on the town, has various priorities he wants to achieve during his mayorship, which include protecting Newquay’s environment, investing in the youth of the town and streamlining council operations.

Born in Hertfordshire in 1982 he moved to Newquay in 2008 with his partner and married at Lusty Glaze in 2009.

He works in the pharmacy industry as the chief operating officer of Community Pharmacy Cornwall supporting people to stay well.

Drew became involved with both the Green Party and the town council as he want to ensure that his three young children, who are aged two, eight and nine, can grow up in a thriving Newquay.

His passions are around the sea as he loves kayaking, bodyboarding and sea swimming.

Drew is also a governor at Trenance Learning Academy.

Newquay Town Council elected Cllr Creek as its mayor for the 2024/25 civic year at its meeting on Wednesday, May 1.

Cllr Creek said: “I am both humbled and excited to have been voted mayor for 2024/25, and the first ever Green Party mayor in Newquay’s history.

“Like many residents I chose to make Newquay my family home rather than being born here, however my passion for our beautiful and vibrant town equals that of any other resident here. 

“First and foremost, I want to in invest in our youth.

“They are the future of Newquay, and it's imperative that we provide them with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

“I will work tirelessly to create better youth engagement and foster a supportive environment where young people can reach their full potential.

“Secondly, I recognise the importance of efficient governance.

“We must streamline our council operations where we can and implement innovative solutions to deliver better services to our residents.

“By maximising efficiency, we can make the most of our limited resources and ensure that every taxpayer pound is spent wisely. 

“Maximising the assets that belong to the town and ensure that any future assets taken on pay their way for the taxpayer.

“Facing into the council’s recent history of poor financial management is a challenge but I am confident that with the work already done over the last year and careful planning for the future, strategic budgeting, and a focus on long-term sustainability, we can overcome these obstacles and set Newquay on a path to financial stability.

“Lastly, but certainly not least, is our environment.

“Newquay's natural beauty is one of our greatest assets, and it's essential that we protect our town from pollution and preserve it for generations to come.

“Of course, tourism is key to the town’s economy, but we need to ensure that is sustainable if we are to continue to benefit from it.

“I am committed to implementing policies that promote biodiversity, conserve our natural resources, and combat climate change.

“By working together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable future for all.

“I believe that putting community at the heart of everything we do will allow Newquay and its residents to thrive.”