BARRY Town Council selected its first ever Plaid Cymru mayor, Cllr Nic Hodges at a ceremony in the Memorial Hall last night.

Baruc ward councillor, Nic Hodges will take on the role for the 2017/2018 year with wife, and Plaid town councillor opposition leader, councillor Shirley Hodges as consort.

He succeeded Charlotte Williams following a majority vote.

Illtyd ward Conservative councillor, Tony Hampton was elected deputy mayor with his partner Marguerita Wright as consort.

Cllr Nic Hodges said: “I am absolutely delighted to become the first Plaid Cymru Mayor of the town and the first from Baruc ward in about 35 years. I want to be a feel-good mayor and do more work on our history and heritage.”

Cllr Hodges made his first official presentations on the night – awarding the mayor’s adult award to Mary Thomas, of the Barry Tenovus branch and Barry Soroptomists, and the youth award to Bailey Sloane who was nominated by the Barry Rotary Club.

Bailey, who has ADHD and is on the autistic spectrum, has become known for his acts of kindness.

The delighted youngster wanted to thank everyone and say that he would like the prime minister to pass a law against swearing.

Cllr Hodges said: “I was delighted to give an award to Mary. I’ve known her for 30 years and it is people like her who carry this town. As for Bailey, I wish I could bottle his enthusiasm. He was lovely. I will certainly invite him to some other events”

Outgoing mayor, Charlotte Williams thanked all for supporting her throughout the year and raising £6000 for her charities.

She added: “I would like to take this opportunity to say to the incoming mayor, I hope that you have as much fun as I did, best wishes and good luck.”

Cllr Hodges’ chaplain will be Graham Ellis and the two charities to be supported will be Ty Hafan and the British Heart Foundation.