CHIPPENHAM’S new mayor has stated he is committed to the successful future of the town and is hopeful of ‘raising the profile of Chippenham wherever possible’.

Councillor Terry Gibson officially took up his post at the ceremonial investiture at Chippenham Town Hall last night, taking over from Coun David Powell.

“Some see the role of mayor as first citizen of the town, I see it more as the first servant to represent our town locally, nationally and internationally through our twin towns La Fleche and Friedberg, raising the profile of Chippenham wherever possible,” said Coun Gibson, who was born and raised in the town.

“Chippenham is no longer the agricultural market town or industrial town as in the past but we are changing and developing to provide new avenues of employment.

“Developers plan to build here, we’re seen as an ideal location with great road and rail links.

“Some say we’ve become a dormitory town but, if this is so, let’s see it positively. Let us be a good dormitory town.

“People may work elsewhere but they spend their free time and money where they live.

“I am committed to the successful future of our town and would hope to continue the improvement and revitalisation of recent years.”

Coun Gibson also chose the Springboard Opportunity Group as his mayoral charity for the year.

“It has been going for 40 years and provides quality care and a learning environment for young children with disabilities and special educational needs,” he added.

“Parents are supported through their difficulties by experienced staff, resulting in both children gaining confidence and the sort of expertise to give the children their best start.”

Coun Mary Norton was also named as deputy mayor yesterday at the ceremonial investiture.

“This is a great town in which to live and, a safe town, as has been shown by the recent award of Purple Flag status, one of the few market towns to achieve recognition in this way,” she said.

“Our council continues with its aim of improving the quality of town life.”