THE civic reception costs of two of the five Vale of Glamorgan mayors has been revealed following a Barry & District News request.

Vale of Glamorgan mayor, Cllr Janice Charles’ civic reception on October 1 saw 153 people attend at a cost of £28.61 per head – a total of £4,377.33.

Meanwhile, Barry Town Council (BTC) mayor, Cllr Nic Hodges invited 35 people to attend his reception on July 16 at a cost of £7.50 per head – a total of £262.50.

A Vale council spokesman said it was important people understand the context of its costs and the ceremony’s significance.

He said: “The annual civic service ceremony is held to mark to the start of a new mayor’s term in office. It is held to introduce the county’s new civic figurehead to local community groups, dignitaries such as the lord lieutenant and high sheriff, representatives of local town and community councils and the civic leaders of neighbouring local authorities.

“Most importantly the service offers an opportunity for the mayor to introduce their chosen charities for their term of office, promote their work, and begin fundraising. Guests at this year’s civic ceremony included representatives from the Wales’ emergency services, armed forces, and HMS Cambria’s cadets.”

BTC mayor, Cllr Nic Hodges said he had been proud to use the cemetery’s Merthyr Dyfan chapel to highlight the good work of BTC.

He said: “The only cost to the council and its taxpayers was the buffet that was supplied by the excellent ValePlus who have the catering contract for our council. The flowers were supplied by Florantina in Park Crescent and paid for by myself and donated to a care home after the event. Whilst the civic event is important I do not believe the taxpayers should be hammered at my expense.”

TaxPayers’ alliance campaign manager, Chloe Westley said: “The Vale of Glamorgan council should spend less of council taxpayers’ money on excessive celebrations and focus on improving the local area.”