Luldow’s mayor-making ceremony was disrupted when a councillor branded the deputy mayor elect a liar and threatened him with court action.
Councillor Nick Galtress made the accusation about fellow councillor Derek Davies during Wednesday’s ceremony in Ludlow Assembly Rooms.
The disruption came when Cllr Galtress asked to address the meeting, just after Councillor Jim Newbold was ratified as mayor – and before Cllr Davies could be approved as his deputy.
He told the assembled crowd he had given councillors a briefing which he said ‘indicates questions of the fitness of the deputy mayor to hold that position.’
Cllr Galtress said: “The deputy mayor has been telling people whatever comes into his head, in this case, lies.
“I honestly think he should seriously consider his position. His first duty as deputy mayor might be with the standards board and the next with the county courts. I suggest he considers taking advice.”
Cllr Galtress left after making his accusation and did not stay to see Cllr Davies accept office.
Asked for his response after the meeting Cllr Davies said: “We’ll see how it goes.” Asked if that was his official comment, he said: “Write what you like.”
Newly-elected mayor Cllr Newbold said: “I know nothing about it, only what I’ve heard in there.”
In another twist, Cllr Jeffry Wilcox proposed an amendment to the vote of thanks to outgoing Mayor Cllr Marie Glaze.
Incoming mayor, Cllr Newbold, proposed she should be thanked ‘for the courteous, efficient and admirable manner’ in which she carried out her duties. This phrase was removed from the vote of thanks.
In her leaving speech, Cllr Glaze said: “I have enjoyed my time as town mayor. I have attended a number of special events and met some interesting people.
“I would like to extend my thanks to Mrs Shirley Newbold who has been my consort. She has been a great support.”
Cllr Glaze then announced a donation of £650 to Ludlow’s Scouts and Brownies who were her chosen charity for her year in office.
After Cllr Newbold was confirmed as mayor, he announced Cllr Glaze would be his consort for the coming year. The Reverend Brian Curnew was confirmed as the mayor’s chaplain for the coming year and Common Sergeant Graham Davies and mace-bearer John Coxill also agreed to continue in their offices.
The new mayor announced his charity would be Age Concern.
