FOR the first time in 12 years St Columb Major has a new mayor.

Cllr Scot Taylor was elected to serve as mayor and Cllr Tizzy McLeod as deputy mayor at St Columb Major Annual Meeting on Tuesday, May 20.

Paul Wills notified the town clerk Jeremy Stuart on the day of the meeting that he had decided to step away from being on the town council.

Mr Wills had been a town councillor for 15 years ( )

He said it was decision that was made “only that morning.”

Mr Wills stated it was a time for change in his life to spend more time with his wife and time for himself.

Cllr Taylor paid tribute to Mr Wills and promised to "work hard" with everyone to "serve all of the people of St Columb Major.”

Mr Wills recently lost his seat representing St Columb at Cornwall Council following the recent elections after serving for eight years, which was won by Rowland O’Connor who represents Reform UK.

Mr Wills said: “Following results of the Cornwall Council election plus the fact there was no election for the town council and having served my community as mayor for 12 years, Cornwall Council for eight years, town council in total for 15 years, I have decided to step away from public life and service.

“This has been a difficult decision to make but, I feel that the town council needs to move in a new direction.

“The last thing I want is for residents to think there is a back seat driver, a new mayor and team is needed! I most sincerely wish the town council all the very best in your future endeavours.

“I only ask one thing, please always bear in mind that the council is there to help not hinder, always put the people first.”